Hindu Editorial Analysis : 6-September-2023

The ‘One Nation One Election’ (ONOE) proposal has been a topic of discussion in India’s political landscape. This initiative aims to streamline the electoral process by synchronizing the Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections. In this essay, we will explore the concept of ONOE, its historical context, the implementation challenges, and arguments both in favor of and against it.

Understanding ‘One Nation One Election’

Currently, India conducts separate elections for the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, leading to a continuous cycle of elections. ONOE proposes holding simultaneous elections for both the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies every five years. This synchronization would entail voters casting their ballots for both on a single day.

Historical Precedence of Simultaneous Elections

Simultaneous elections are not entirely new to India. They were conducted in 1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967. However, this practice was discontinued due to the dissolution of some Legislative Assemblies between 1968 and 1969, leading to the current separate election system.

Implementation Challenges

Implementing ONOE requires a political consensus and constitutional amendments. Key articles like Article 172, Article 83, Article 85, and Article 356 of the Indian Constitution would need revision. Additionally, amendments to the People’s Representation Act, 1951, and the Anti-Defection Law are necessary for organized conduct and stability.

Arguments in Favor of ONOE
  1. Government Efforts & Financial Resources:
    • Frequent elections strain government resources and efforts.
    • Constant elections disrupt governance and lead to policy paralysis.
  2. Pressure on National Parties:
    • National parties like the Congress and the BJP bear the brunt of continuous elections.
    • State or municipal elections in any part of the country involve their national leadership.
  3. Cost Savings:
    • Synchronizing elections could significantly reduce election costs.
    • Estimates suggest a substantial decrease in expenses when elections are coordinated.
  4. Engagement of Security Forces:
    • Frequent elections divert security forces from other critical security duties.
  5. Hampering Essential Services:
    • Regular elections disrupt essential services due to the involvement of public servants, including teachers.
Arguments Against ONOE
  1. Only States Are Contesting:
    • India doesn’t have elections every year; individual states do.
    • Not all major political parties are in election mode at the same time.
  2. Not a Duty of Top Officials:
    • Central or Cabinet leaders should prioritize their office duties over local elections for party interests.
  3. Attack on Federalism:
    • ONOE undermines India’s federalism, as state Chief Ministers lose the power to recommend early elections.
    • The Union government would dictate election schedules for all states.
  4. Increase in Cost:
    • In the short term, ONOE may increase costs related to voting machines and control units.
  5. Works for Presidential System:
    • Simultaneous elections may work better in a presidential system rather than a parliamentary one.
  6. Unworkable & Unfeasible:
    • ONOE is seen as politically unfeasible, administratively unworkable, and constitutionally unviable.
Why In News

The government has once again brought up the ‘one nation one election’ proposal, emphasizing the need for synchronized elections across the country. This initiative aims to streamline the electoral process and enhance governance efficiency.

MCQs about The ‘One Nation One Election’ Proposal

  1. What is the primary objective of the ‘One Nation One Election’ (ONOE) proposal in India?
    A. To increase the frequency of elections
    B. To synchronize Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections
    C. To abolish elections entirely
    D. To introduce a presidential system
    Correct Answer: B. To synchronize Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections
    Explanation: The primary objective of the ONOE proposal is to synchronize Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, reducing the frequency of separate elections.
  2. Which of the following is NOT an argument in favor of ONOE ?
    A. Cost savings
    B. Pressure on National Parties
    C. Increase in federalism
    D. Engagement of security forces
    Correct Answer: C. Increase in federalism
    Explanation: The essay does not present an argument in favor of ONOE related to an increase in federalism; instead, it highlights concerns about undermining federalism.
  3. why might simultaneous elections be considered an administrative challenge?
    A. They do not require any constitutional amendments.
    B. They reduce costs significantly.
    C. They require coordination and constitutional amendments.
    D. They have no impact on governance.
    Correct Answer: C. They require coordination and constitutional amendments.
    Explanation: Simultaneous elections are considered an administrative challenge because they require coordination and constitutional amendments.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading