The Indian government, under the leadership of former President Ram Nath Kovind, has initiated a committee to investigate the feasibility of implementing “One Nation, One Election.” This concept envisions a system where all state and Lok Sabha elections are held simultaneously, potentially reshaping the electoral landscape of the nation.
Historical Perspective
- India’s first general elections in 1951 saw the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies going to polls simultaneously. The following election cycles mostly adhered to this pattern, except for a few exceptions. However, the last occasion of near-simultaneous elections occurred in 1967.
- The dissolution of the fourth Lok Sabha in 1971 marked the beginning of the end of simultaneous elections. The National Emergency in 1975 and subsequent state assembly dissolutions further disrupted the concurrent election cycle.
- After premature dissolutions of the Lok Sabha in 1998 and 1999, only four State Assemblies have synchronized their elections with the Lok Sabha in the last two decades, leading to multiple rounds of Assembly elections each year.
- The idea of reintroducing simultaneous elections was initially raised in the Election Commission’s 1983 annual report and mentioned in the Law Commission’s 1999 report. Prime Minister Modi reignited the concept in 2016, leading to a working paper by NITI Aayog in 2017. The Law Commission’s 2018 working paper stated that several constitutional recommendations would be necessary to make simultaneous elections a reality.
- In June 2019, Prime Minister Modi announced the formation of a committee to examine the issue and hold discussions with political leaders. In July 2022, the matter was referred to the Law Commission to develop a workable roadmap and framework.
Benefits of Simultaneous Elections
Report of Parliamentary Standing Committee, 2015: The committee noted various justifications for simultaneous elections, including substantial cost reduction, resource savings, the avoidance of policy paralysis during elections, improved delivery of essential services, and a shift from constant election mode to governance focus. Additionally, the Law Commission argued that simultaneous polls would enhance voter turnout.
Challenges
- Constitutional Challenges: The Indian Constitution allows for the dissolution of the legislature in certain situations, making synchronization a complex task. Amending the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act 1951, and the rules of Lok Sabha and state Assemblies would be necessary. At least 50% of states would need to ratify these amendments.
- Legal Safeguards Needed: To prevent mid-term dissolutions, legal safeguards must be implemented, such as requiring a ‘no-confidence motion’ to also contain a constructive ‘vote of confidence’ in an alternative government.
- Affect on Voter Judgment: Simultaneous elections may blur the lines between national and state issues, potentially affecting voter decisions.
- Reduced Accountability: Holding elections once every five years may reduce government accountability to the people. Frequent elections keep legislators on their toes and increase accountability.
Way forward
The concept of “One Nation, One Election” presents both opportunities and challenges. While it aims to reduce costs, enhance governance focus, and potentially increase voter turnout, it also necessitates significant constitutional amendments and raises questions about its impact on voter judgment, government accountability, and logistical feasibility.
UPSC Mains Questions
- How might the synchronization of elections impact the balance of power between the central government and state governments in India?
- What constitutional amendments would be required to facilitate simultaneous elections, and how might they affect the federal character of the Indian political system?
- Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of holding elections once every five years on governance and political stability in India.
- How can the Election Commission of India overcome logistical challenges when conducting simultaneous elections, and what measures can ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process under this system?