The idea of “One Nation, One Election” in India isn’t a novel concept; it dates back to the adoption of the Constitution in 1950 when simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies were held between 1951 and 1967. This practice was discontinued due to state reorganization. The concept resurfaced in the Election Commission’s 1983 report and the Law Commission’s 1999 report. In 2014, the BJP-led government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi revived the idea. The Law Commission’s 2018 draft report endorsed it, but constitutional amendments and approval by at least 50% of states are required.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Lok Sabha: The lower house of India’s Parliament, consisting of members elected by the people of India. It plays a crucial role in the legislative process and governance.
- Constitutional Amendment: A change or addition to the constitution of a country, often requiring a special process or majority approval to become law.
- Law Commission: An independent body in India responsible for recommending legal reforms, reviewing and suggesting changes to existing laws, and conducting research on legal matters.
- Rajya Sabha: The upper house of India’s Parliament, representing the states and union territories. It has a significant role in the legislative process and acts as a revising chamber.
- All India Presiding Officers Conference: A gathering of presiding officers from various legislative bodies in India to discuss and deliberate on important issues related to parliamentary procedures and governance.
