In recent years, the concept of “One Nation, One Election” has gained momentum as a potential reform in India's electoral system. This proposition suggests synchronizing state and Lok Sabha elections, a practice that existed until 1967. While the idea aims to streamline the electoral process and reduce costs, it is not without its share of challenges and criticisms.
Background: A Journey Through Time
Simultaneous elections were the norm until 1967, but the dissolution of some Legislative Assemblies in 1968 and 1969 led to a departure from this practice. The idea resurfaced in the Electoral Commission's 1983 annual report, and the Law Commission echoed it in 1999. Niti Aayog delved into the topic with a working paper in 2017, and in April 2018, the Law Commission highlighted the need for five constitutional amendments to initiate the change.
The Implementation Process: Constitutional Amendments
To implement “One Nation, One Election,” five constitutional amendments are proposed, targeting articles related to Parliament's conditions, the duration of houses, dissolution of the Lok Sabha, duration of State legislatures, dissolution of State legislatures, and the imposition of President's Rule in States.
Pros: Streamlining the Democratic Process
The primary advantage of the proposed reform lies in the reduction of election-related costs. Conducting separate elections demands significant financial resources, and consolidating them could lead to substantial savings. Simultaneous elections could also ease the burden on administrative and security forces, allowing the government to focus more on governance rather than election logistics.
The Law Commission argues that simultaneous elections could increase voter participation, as citizens find it more convenient to cast their votes in one go. This, in turn, might contribute to policy and program consistency across central and state governments. Additionally, it could eliminate the hindrance of the model code that prevents the initiation of new public welfare projects during election periods.
Cons: Challenges and Concerns
However, the proposed reform faces its fair share of challenges. One prominent concern is that state and national issues differ, and simultaneous elections might influence voters' decisions based on overarching national narratives. Critics argue that the five-year election cycle ensures that lawmakers remain accountable and responsive to the people, and disrupting this rhythm might reduce government responsibility.
The fear of overshadowing regional issues with national concerns is another significant drawback. Critics express concerns that the diversity of regional problems might be neglected, impacting the outcome of state elections. Opposition parties have also been vocal in their disagreement, further complicating the path to consensus.
Logistically, the challenge of organizing simultaneous elections is immense. The need for around Rs 30,000 crore worth of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), along with deploying central forces across the vast nation, poses a formidable task.
Conclusion and the Way Forward: Striking a Balance
In conclusion, while the idea of “One Nation, One Election” has its merits in terms of cost reduction and administrative efficiency, it is crucial to strike a balance. The potential risk of overshadowing regional issues and the logistical challenges should be carefully considered. The decision to implement simultaneous elections should involve a comprehensive evaluation of its impact on India's diverse political landscape.
To move forward, an inclusive approach is necessary. Seeking support from all national and recognized political parties, amending existing laws, and fostering interstate understanding are key steps. Additionally, the endeavor would require a significant increase in the production of EVMs and VVPATs, as well as the mobilization of additional election workers and security forces.
As citizens and political parties deliberate on this critical issue, the question remains: Will simultaneous elections contribute to India's democratic ethos, or will they compromise the rich tapestry of diversity that defines the nation? The final decision on the matter is yet to be made, and it is imperative that all stakeholders engage in a thorough and thoughtful dialogue to shape the future of India's electoral landscape.
