India’s Prime Minister recently addressed the 80th All India Presiding Officers Conference via videoconference. He proposed ‘One Nation, One Election’ and a single voter list for all polls. His other suggestions included simplifying the language of statute books, an easier process to remove redundant laws, and continued appreciation for India’s efforts in combating terrorism.
One Nation, One Election
The Prime Minister’s proposal seeks to simplify the Indian election cycle by synchronising Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections. This would mean both elections could occur within the same period.
The Benefits
Synchronising elections could help regulate poll expenses, reduce administrative and security burdens, and ensure more efficient implementation of government policies. Politicians could focus on governance rather than electioneering, and it might encourage them to make decisions beneficial for the country in the long-term. Moreover, synchronising elections could provide more preparation time for stakeholders including political parties, the Election Commission of India (ECI), paramilitary forces, and civilians.
The Challenges
Certain complexities arise with the synchronisation idea. For instance, the government is accountable to the Lower House, which may lead to a government fall and subsequent election. Convincing all political parties to accept this new approach could prove challenging. Additional resources into Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) would be required. The provision of extra staffing and improved security arrangements would also be necessary.
Suggested Solutions
Possible solutions could include reducing or increasing the State Legislative Assemblies’ terms to align with the Lok Sabha. However, these changes may necessitate amendments to several articles of the constitution. Alternatively, switching to a Presidential form of government or only synchronising the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha elections could be considered.
One Voter List
The Prime Minister also proposed having one voter list for all elections, including the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha.
The Benefits
A common electoral roll could save significant effort and expenditure, as currently preparing separate voter lists leads to duplication.
The Challenges
Implementing a unified voter list would require persuading state governments to adapt their laws and accept the ECI voters list for municipal and panchayat polls. Creating a consensus across states might be a major hurdle.
Suggested Solutions
One possible solution is for states to adopt the EC’s voter list. While aligning the EC’s list with State Election Commissions’ wards could prove arduous, it might be achievable through technology.
All India Presiding Officers Conference
This conference began in 1921, with the latest event marking its centenary year. The 2020 theme was ‘Harmonious Coordination between Legislature, Executive and Judiciary: Key to a Vibrant Democracy.’ This advocates close coordination between all three branches of government, as prescribed in the constitution.
The Way Forward
Ongoing elections hamper developmental work; thus, the ‘One Nation, One Election’ idea warrants careful consideration to mitigate the impact of the model code of conduct on development works. It’s crucial for all political parties to engage in a debate about the need and feasibility of this proposal. Once debates commence, public opinion can be taken into account. Being a mature democracy, India will then adhere to the debate’s outcome.