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One Nation, One Election (ONOE)
Context:
The Union Cabinet accepted the recommendations of the panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind regarding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies in a phased approach.
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- The government plans to build a national consensus on the issue before introducing a Bill in Parliament.
- The government stated that an implementation group would be formed to advance the panel’s recommendations and foster consensus across the country over the coming months.
- After the consultation process is completed, the government will draft a Bill, present it to the Cabinet, and then submit it to Parliament to enable the simultaneous elections.
Panel’s Recommendations
- The panel’s report, submitted in March prior to the general election announcement, suggested implementing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) concept in two phases.
- The first phase would involve simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, while the second phase would hold elections for local bodies like panchayats and municipalities within 100 days of the general election.
- The report recommended 18 constitutional amendments, most of which would not require ratification by state assemblies.
- However, certain constitutional amendment Bills would need to pass through Parliament, and changes related to a single electoral roll and voter ID would need approval from at least half of the states.
What is ‘One Nation, One Election’?
- One Nation, One Election is a proposal in India aimed at synchronising elections for the Lok Sabha (national) and state assemblies, allowing them to be held simultaneously every five years.
- This initiative aims to reduce election frequency, saving time and resources while improving governance efficiency by streamlining electoral processes and minimising disruptions.
Benefits of Simultaneous Elections:
- Joint elections can save significant costs and improve administrative efficiency.
- Higher voter turnout may result from holding elections together.
- The 2019 Lok Sabha elections cost approximately Rs 60,000 crore, which included both political party and Election Commission expenses.
- Repeated deployment of security personnel and the diversion of government machinery for election duties also contribute to high costs and inefficiencies.
History of Simultaneous Elections:
- Simultaneous elections were conducted during the first general elections in 1951-52, including all Vidhan Sabha polls.
- This practice continued until 1967, when hung assemblies disrupted the cycle.
- The trend was further derailed by prematurely dissolved Lok Sabhas and state assemblies in subsequent years.
Progress So Far:
- While the realignment of elections has not occurred, the issue has gained significant attention.
- The Election Commission of India has consistently supported the idea, expressing its views in various reports, including a 2022 meeting with the 22nd Law Commission.
- Law Commissions, such as the 107th report in 1999 and the 22nd report in 2018, have recommended restoring simultaneous polls.
- A 2015 Parliamentary Standing Committee also supported the idea, though some political parties opposed it.
Arguments For and Against Simultaneous Polls:
- Supporters argue that multiple elections strain state resources, keep political parties in constant campaign mode, and encourage corrupt practices.
- Critics worry that national issues may overshadow local concerns and that the Centre could misuse power, influencing regional parties and state politics.
Challenges in Implementing ‘One Nation, One Election’
- The proposal faces opposition due to concerns over democratic principles and regional autonomy.
- Constitutional amendments are required, needing a two-thirds majority in Parliament and ratification by at least half the states.
- Key constitutional articles like 83, 85(2)(B), 174(2)(B), 356, and 75(3) would need to be amended, along with changes to the Representation of People’s Act, 1951.
- Logistical challenges include ensuring the availability of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and adequate polling and security staff.