One Nation, One Election: A bold step towards electoral reform | Fusion - WeRIndia

The Union Cabinet has approved two key bills to implement the ambitious ‘One Nation, One Election‘ proposal.

This initiative aims to synchronize Lok Sabha, state Assembly, and eventually municipal elections to streamline the electoral process and governance.

The bills propose amendments to Article 82 of the Constitution to synchronize Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

They also address changes in the duration and dissolution of legislative bodies.

Additionally, provisions in three laws will align the legislative frameworks of union territories like Puducherry, Delhi, and Jammu & Kashmir with the states and Lok Sabha.

While linking national and state elections does not require state ratification, aligning municipal polls with these elections will need approval from at least 50% of state legislatures.

Former President Ram Nath Kovind, leading the panel on this reform, emphasized the proposal’s potential to boost GDP by 1-1.5%.

The panel claims simultaneous elections can reduce policy paralysis, optimize resources, and promote economic stability. Businesses may also benefit from fewer disruptions due to frequent elections.

However, regional parties have expressed concerns. Limited resources might hinder their ability to highlight local issues effectively during joint campaigns.

Critics, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Tamil Nadu’s MK Stalin, have called the proposal “anti-democratic.”

Legal experts warn that failing to build consensus could lead to challenges over the federal structure.

Unresolved issues, such as handling early dissolutions or hung assemblies, further complicate the plan.

Additionally, the recurring cost of electronic voting machines—estimated at ₹10,000 crore every 15 years—remains a concern.

Public opinion appears largely favourable, with over 81% of 21,000 suggestions supporting the idea, according to recent reports.

Proponents argue the reform will enhance governance and simplify the electoral process.

The government envisions ‘One Nation, One Election’ as a transformative step. However,  its success hinges on overcoming logistical and political challenges while ensuring inclusivity.

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on August 09, 2018

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1445485