Explained | Union Cabinet Approves One Nation One Election. What Does It Mean? How Will it Change the Poll Process?

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill on Thursday. The government is expected to table a comprehensive bill in the ongoing

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill on Thursday. The government is expected to table a comprehensive bill in the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, initiating discussions on this significant electoral reform.

What is ‘One Nation, One Election’?

The concept advocates holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies nationwide. At present, these elections are held separately, depending on the five-year term or early dissolution of a government. Prime Minister Modi has been a long-time supporter of this idea, citing its potential to streamline electoral processes.

Benefits of Simultaneous Elections

Proponents argue that unified elections can reduce the financial burden on the government and political parties, enhance administrative efficiency, and improve voter turnout. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections alone reportedly cost approximately Rs 60,000 crore, including the Election Commission’s expenses and campaign costs borne by political parties. Simultaneous polls can also prevent frequent deployment of security personnel and disruptions in regular government functioning.

Simultaneous elections were the norm during India’s first general elections in 1951-52, which coincided with the Vidhan Sabha polls. This practice continued until 1967 when hung assemblies disrupted the pattern. Since then, staggered elections have become the norm due to the premature dissolution of both Lok Sabhas and state assemblies.

Arguments For and Against

Supporters highlight that frequent elections divert resources, keep political parties in perpetual campaign mode, and encourage corrupt practices. On the other hand, critics express concerns about the potential centralisation of power, which could undermine regional parties and dilute local governance issues.

Challenges in Implementation

Implementing simultaneous polls requires extensive constitutional amendments, including changes to Articles 83, 85(2)(B), 174(2)(B), 356, and 75(3). The Representation of People’s Act, of 1951, must also be amended. These changes necessitate a two-thirds majority in Parliament and ratification by at least half of India’s states.

Operational challenges include ensuring adequate availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), polling staff, and security personnel. Critics also warn that the dominance of national issues could overshadow local concerns, potentially impacting the democratic spirit.

As the government moves forward with this ambitious proposal, it will have to navigate legal, logistical, and political hurdles to realise the vision of ‘One Nation, One Election.’

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