The concept of simultaneous elections for all levels of government, popularly known as “One Nation, One Election”, has been a topic of discussion for some time in India. Now, sources indicate that the Narendra Modi government is serious about implementing this policy during its current tenure.
Prime Minister Modi himself advocated for this reform in his Independence Day speech this year, highlighting the potential benefits of reducing frequent elections and fostering a more focused national agenda. The government has taken concrete steps towards this goal by forming a committee headed by former President Ramnath Kovind to study the feasibility of the proposal. The committee has submitted its report, suggesting a phased approach: initially synchronizing Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, followed by unified local body polls within a hundred days.
The Law Commission is also expected to recommend the adoption of “One Nation, One Election” soon. The Commission’s recommendations may include a timeline for implementation, starting from 2029, and provisions for addressing scenarios like hung assemblies or no-confidence motions through the formation of unity governments.
The BJP, which included “One Nation, One Election” in its election manifesto, is reportedly optimistic about achieving consensus among political parties for its implementation. However, the Opposition has raised concerns about the potential constitutional implications of this reform.
There are significant logistical challenges that need to be addressed. Synchronizing electoral cycles across the country requires careful planning to minimize disruptions to governance. It also necessitates a clear strategy for handling situations like dissolved Houses, President’s Rule, or hung assemblies.
Regional parties have expressed reservations about the feasibility of campaigning effectively on local issues amidst the national fervor of a Lok Sabha election. They fear that their resources may be insufficient to effectively communicate their agendas to voters.
Another concern is the recurring cost of procuring Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), which the Election Commission estimates to be around Rs. 10,000 crore every 15 years.
While the idea of “One Nation, One Election” has gained traction, its implementation remains a complex undertaking. Addressing the concerns of political parties, ensuring smooth logistical operations, and finding effective solutions for unforeseen scenarios will be crucial to its success. The coming months will likely witness further discussions and deliberations on this ambitious proposal.
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