The Representation of the People Act, 1951, along with Articles 243K and 243ZA, are essential components of Indian polity. The concept of Simultaneous Elections, along with a Common Electoral Roll, has been under discussion for its possible merits and demerits.
Common Electoral Roll: An Overview
A Common Electoral Roll would entail a single voter list used for Lok Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, and other Indian elections. Currently, some state laws permit the State Election Commission (SEC) to use the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) voter’s rolls for local body elections. However, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have their own electoral rolls, distinct from the ECI’s roll.
The Dual Authority in Elections: ECI and SECs
Election processes in India are overseen by two constitutional authorities. Set up in 1950, the ECI is responsible for conducting polls for the offices of the President and Vice-President of India, Parliament, state assemblies, and legislative councils. Meanwhile, the SECs overlook municipal and panchayat elections, preparing their own electoral rolls independently of the EC.
Advantages of a Common Electoral Roll
Implementing a common electoral roll and simultaneous elections could save enormous amounts of time, effort, and expenditure. The preparation of separate voters’ lists leads to duplication of resources. This idea was recommended by the Law Commission in its 255th report back in 2015.
Implementing a Common Electoral Roll
To implement a common electoral roll, a Constitutional Amendment to Articles 243K and 243ZA would be necessary. These articles govern elections to panchayats and municipalities, giving the SEC supervisory power over electoral roll preparation. The amendment would require state governments to adopt the ECI’s voters list for municipal and panchayat polls.
The Concept of Simultaneous Elections
Simultaneous Elections propose to synchronize Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections so they occur within a limited time span. This would help control poll expenses, reduce the administrative burden and allow for more timely policy implementation.
Challenges to Simultaneous Elections
Despite the potential benefits, simultaneous elections present challenges. The government’s accountability to the Lower House means that it could fall before completing its term, necessitating an election. It would also be challenging to build consensus among all political parties on this issue. There would be additional logistical issues, such as increased requirements for Electronic Voting Machines and the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails.
The Need for Reflection and Consensus
The frequent occurrence of elections can potentially disrupt developmental work. It is essential, therefore, to undertake a thorough study and deliberation on the concept of a common electoral roll and simultaneous elections. Moreover, a national consensus on these issues must be reached. A public debate is crucial, as is taking public opinion into consideration. As a mature democracy, India should follow the outcome of such debates.