The Indian government has taken a significant step towards streamlining the electoral process with the much-debated One Nation-One Election proposal. This agenda was presented in the Lok Sabha as a step to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, reducing the frequency of elections and minimizing disruptions to governance. The bill has sparked debates across the political spectrum regarding its feasibility, benefits, and impact on democracy.
Agenda Presented in Lok Sabha regarding One Nation-One Election proposal
The proposal of One Nation-One Election was introduced in the Lok Sabha with the aim of holding simultaneous elections across the country. The government cited concerns over the high cost, frequent use of resources, and interruption in developmental activities caused by elections being held at different intervals. The agenda was presented under the premise that synchronized elections could enhance governance, minimize administrative burdens, and reduce the economic impact of frequent polls.
In the Lok Sabha, the government successfully garnered support for the bill with a strong majority. Out of the total votes cast, the bill received 336 votes in favor against 149 votes opposing it. The NDA, with its stronghold in the Lower House, was able to pass the bill with relative ease, reflecting their majority strength and strategic lobbying.
Current Position of the Bill on One Nation-One Election in Rajya Sabha
While the bill has been passed the Lok Sabha, its fate in the Rajya Sabha remains a crucial challenge. The NDA holds significant strength in the Upper House but falls short of a full majority, relying on alliances and support from regional parties to push key legislation forward.
The NDA currently holds approximately 114 seats out of 245 in the Rajya Sabha. To successfully pass the bill, the government requires 123 votes. Given the coalition dynamics, the government has initiated discussions with allied parties and neutral entities to secure their votes. However, resistance from opposition parties, particularly those concerned about federalism and state autonomy, may pose hurdles.
If the government manages to win over key allies, the bill is likely to clear the Rajya Sabha. However, achieving consensus in the politically charged environment of the Upper House remains a test of negotiation and strategy.
Benefits of One Nation-One Election
The proposed One Nation-One Election offers several notable benefits that address both economic and administrative challenges:
- Cost Savings: One of the primary advantages is the significant reduction in the expenditure associated with conducting elections. Currently, elections held at multiple intervals require heavy spending on logistics, security, and administrative resources. By synchronizing elections, these costs can be minimized.
- Efficient Use of Resources: Conducting elections at different times places a massive burden on the Election Commission, government employees, and security forces. Simultaneous elections will ensure a more efficient allocation of these resources.
- Minimized Governance Disruption: Frequent elections often disrupt governance as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) restricts governments from implementing new policies and schemes. A synchronized election schedule will ensure that developmental activities are not stalled.
- Improved Voter Turnout: Holding elections at the same time is likely to increase voter participation. Citizens would be more inclined to cast their votes when elections are less frequent and well-organized.
- Political Stability: Simultaneous elections would create a uniform electoral cycle, reducing the need for constant electioneering. This will allow governments to focus on policymaking rather than being in a perpetual state of campaigning.
Economic Impact of One Nation-One Election: How Much Money Will Be Saved?
The financial burden of conducting elections across India at multiple intervals is staggering. According to estimates, the 2019 Lok Sabha elections alone cost the exchequer approximately ₹60,000 crore. When state assembly elections, local body elections, and by-elections are added to the tally, the cumulative cost runs into hundreds of thousands of crores.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) and government experts predict that synchronized elections could save up to ₹10,000 crore to ₹15,000 crore every five years. These savings could be redirected towards developmental projects, infrastructure, healthcare, and education, benefiting citizens directly.
Concerns and Opposition While the bill promises numerous advantages, several concerns have been raised by opposition parties and political analysts. Critics argue that One Nation, One Election could undermine federalism and diminish the accountability of state governments. They contend that state elections allow citizens to hold local governments accountable at regular intervals, a process that could be compromised under a uniform election schedule.
Additionally, logistical challenges remain, including the need for extensive planning, technological upgrades, and increased security personnel to ensure a smooth electoral process nationwide.
The One Nation-One Election bill marks a transformative step in India’s democratic process. The proposal seeks to improve governance efficiency, reduce the economic burden of elections, and strengthen political stability. While it has been passed comfortably in the Lok Sabha with 336 votes in favour, its passage in the Rajya Sabha will require the government to navigate the complexities of coalition politics.
If successfully implemented, One Nation-One Election could potentially save the country thousands of crores of rupees and allow the government to focus more on governance and development. However, addressing concerns regarding federalism and logistical challenges will be essential to achieving broad-based consensus. The coming weeks will reveal whether this ambitious reform will reshape India’s electoral landscape or remain a subject of debate in the corridors of Parliament.
