The "One Nation One Election" initiative, aimed at holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, is moving a step closer to realization. On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet gave the green light to the proposal based on the findings of the Ram Nath Kovind-led high-level committee. This marks a significant political milestone, with the bill expected to be tabled during the upcoming winter session of Parliament.Â
The concept of simultaneous elections has been a key component of the BJP’s electoral vision for years, prominently featured in their election manifesto. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has championed the idea, citing the disruption caused by frequent elections, which, according to him, hinder governance and economic progress. In his 2024 Independence Day address, Modi reiterated that the time had come for India to embrace "One Nation One Election," describing it as essential for national development. He argued that the constant election cycle diverts government resources, stretches the bureaucratic machinery, and slows down policy implementation.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, elaborating on the next steps, stated that the simultaneous elections would be implemented in phases. The first phase would involve synchronizing the Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, for which no state-level approval would be required for the constitutional amendments. This is a critical step, as it simplifies the initial implementation process. The second phase, involving local body elections such as those for municipalities and panchayats, will require ratification by at least half of the states. These local elections will be aligned with general and Assembly polls to ensure a uniform electoral cycle across the country.
The Kovind committee's report, which spans over 18,000 pages, offers detailed recommendations for constitutional changes. It has proposed 18 amendments that would enable the smooth execution of simultaneous polls. One of the key recommendations includes the creation of a common electoral roll for all elections, reducing duplication and streamlining the voter registration process. Additionally, the proposal emphasizes the need for robust planning and the establishment of an implementation group to oversee the execution of this ambitious reform.
The proposed changes could fundamentally alter India's electoral dynamics. Currently, India holds elections for the Lok Sabha, state Assemblies, and local bodies at different times. This creates a continuous cycle of electoral activity, with different states and regions going to the polls almost every year. Proponents of "One Nation One Election" argue that this constant electioneering places a burden on governance, with governments often shifting focus from policy-making to electoral campaigns. Moreover, the repeated imposition of the Model Code of Conduct during elections disrupts development projects and decision-making.
However, despite its potential benefits, the proposal has sparked significant debate. Opposition parties, including the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Shiv Sena (UBT), have expressed strong reservations. They argue that holding simultaneous elections could dilute the regional focus of state elections and lead to a dominance of national issues overshadowing local concerns. Critics fear that the centralization of elections could give an undue advantage to the party in power at the national level, in this case, the BJP, potentially weakening the democratic fabric of the country. They contend that the diversity of India's states, each with its own unique issues and political landscape, demands separate elections to ensure that regional voices are adequately represented.
In contrast, the BJP and its allies, including JD(U) and Chirag Paswan’s party, have backed the move. They argue that simultaneous elections will reduce the overall cost of conducting elections, both financially and logistically. Additionally, they believe it will promote greater stability by aligning the terms of national and state governments, ensuring that development projects and policies can be implemented more consistently without the interruptions caused by frequent elections.
As India gears up for the upcoming winter session of Parliament, the introduction of the "One Nation One Election" bill is expected to be one of the most closely watched events. The political ramifications are vast, with the potential to significantly alter India's electoral landscape. If passed, the legislation will change how elections are conducted and shape the future of governance in the country. With the NDA government firmly behind the proposal, the path to simultaneous elections may become clearer, but it will undoubtedly face hurdles, both from the political opposition and legal challenges that may arise from the proposed constitutional amendments.
As the debate intensifies, the future of Indian democracy hangs in the balance, with "One Nation One Election" representing a bold, transformative step that could either streamline governance or, as its critics argue, undermine the federal structure and diversity of India’s electoral system. The winter session of Parliament will be crucial in determining the direction this reform takes and whether India is ready for such a sweeping change.
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