In recent years, the concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ has gained significant traction in Indian politics. This idea, frequently endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections. To delve into this proposal’s intricacies, the Modi government has constituted a committee under the leadership of former President Ram Nath Kovind, charged with assessing its viability and devising a mechanism to facilitate simultaneous elections, reminiscent of the practice until 1967.
The Vision of ‘One Nation, One Election’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been in power since 2014, has consistently advocated for the concept of simultaneous elections at all levels, including local bodies. His primary rationale for this proposal is the financial burden imposed by near-continuous election cycles and their adverse impact on developmental efforts.
What ‘One Nation, One Election’ Encompasses
It’s crucial to note that the ‘One Nation, One Election’ concept does not extend to panchayat elections, state municipality elections, or by-elections. Implementing this plan would necessitate a constitutional amendment, a process requiring ratification by 50% of the states.
The Financial Perspective
Supporters of ‘One Nation, One Election’ argue that polling is an expensive affair. For instance, the 2019 general elections were estimated to be the most expensive in India’s history. According to the Election Commission, the expenditure for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls was Rs 10,000 crore. Non-EC estimates, including spending by parties and candidates, soared to Rs 60,000 crore. The proponents believe that simultaneous polls could save both time and money, allowing governments to focus on governance instead of perpetual election campaigning.
Concerns and Opposition
Conversely, there are concerns about the feasibility and practicality of implementing such a system. The opposition front, I.N.D.I.A, has taken note of the Centre’s move to hold ‘one nation, one election,’ as well as the possibility of early Lok Sabha elections. The leaders of 28 political parties met informally to discuss these issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘One Nation, One Election’ is an idea that aims to hold simultaneous elections across India for Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and scrutinized by a committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, this proposal has both potential benefits, such as saving time and money, and concerns about its feasibility and practicality.
FAQs
- What are the primary motivations behind ‘One Nation, One Election’?
- The primary motivation is to reduce the financial burden of frequent elections and allow governments to focus on governance.
- Are all elections in India covered under this proposal?
- No, ‘One Nation, One Election’ does not include panchayat elections, state municipality elections, or by-elections.
- Who is leading the committee to assess the viability of this concept?
- The committee is led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
- Why do proponents believe simultaneous elections are beneficial?
- They argue that it can save both time and money, enabling better governance.
- What concerns have been raised by the opposition?
- The opposition has expressed concerns about the feasibility and practicality of implementing this system.