The concept of "One Nation, One Election" (ONOE), also known as simultaneous elections, has garnered significant attention in recent years or days. By ONOE, voters would cast their votes for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies on the same day, possibly in different phases. While the idea appears efficient and appealing, it brings with it a mix of advantages and challenges that demand a thorough analysis and critical thought.

Let us delve deeper into the merits and demerits of ONOE and assess whether it is truly necessary and feasible for a diverse democracy like India.

The Merits of ONOE

• Reduction in Cost
  In 2019, the Election Commission of India (ECI), along with the central and state governments, incurred expenses of approximately ₹60,000 crore during elections. Proponents of ONOE argue that simultaneous elections could significantly reduce polling expenses, with costs potentially being shared equally between the Centre and states.
   
• Improved Productivity of Politicians in Government
  Frequent elections in India often divert the energy of politicians, particularly those in government, from their primary duties of policymaking and public welfare. With ONOE, governance could become more focused and less interrupted, allowing politicians to dedicate more time to serving the public.
   
• Streamlined Security Deployment
  Large-scale deployment of security forces such as CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and SSB during elections stretches their resources and limits their availability for regular duties. Simultaneous elections could optimize the utilization of these forces.
   
• Moral Code of Conduct
  The imposition of the Model Code of Conduct during elections restricts legislative activities, including the passage of crucial bills. A single election cycle would minimize disruptions caused by prolonged adherence to the code.
   
• Increased Voter Turnout
  Holding simultaneous elections in a phased manner could enhance voter participation, particularly for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who find it challenging to return multiple times to cast their votes.

The Demerits of ONOE

• Constitutional Amendments
  Article 83 of the Constitution, which provides for the five-year tenure of the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, would require amendments to facilitate ONOE. This could necessitate dissolving several state assemblies prematurely, leading to potential instability. In extreme cases, the imposition of President's Rule might be required to synchronize election cycles.
   
• Impact on Federalism
  India's quasi-federal structure grants significant autonomy to states, especially concerning the conduct of state and local body elections. Implementing ONOE could centralize power, upsetting the balance between the Centre and states. This poses a potential threat to the federal character, which forms part of the Constitution's basic structure.
   
• Voter Behavior and Perspective
  While ONOE might reduce election fatigue, it could inadvertently influence voting patterns. Voters might prioritize national issues over regional concerns, potentially leading to a uniform voting trend that undermines regional diversity in governance.
   
• Democratic Implications
  Synchronizing elections would require the dissolution of some assemblies, imposition of President's Rule, or passage of no-confidence motions. Such measures could create periods of democratic voids, raising concerns about governance and representation.
   
• Increased Burden on Election Commission
  The ECI would face significant logistical and operational challenges in conducting simultaneous elections nationwide. This includes mobilizing resources, ensuring timely availability of equipment, and managing the increased workload on election officials. Delays in results could also become more frequent.
   
• Judicial Activism
  Given that federalism is a basic feature of the Constitution, any policy threatening this structure could be challenged in court. Judicial intervention might result in the ONOE policy being struck down or subjected to significant modifications.

Conclusion
While the idea of ONOE is appealing from a logical and efficiency standpoint, its practical implementation appears complex and fraught with challenges. The concerns surrounding constitutional amendments, federalism, voter behavior, and logistical feasibility cannot be overlooked.

For ONOE to become a reality, it would require exhaustive deliberations, consensus-building among stakeholders, and a carefully structured implementation strategy that addresses its inherent drawbacks. An analytical and inclusive dialogue among lawmakers is crucial to determining the future of this ambitious proposal.

Also Read:

• One Nation, One Election: A Critical Analysis
• One Nation, One Election: A Fix Without A Flaw
• One Nation, One Election from a constitutional perspective
• Towards One Nation, One Election: Exploring Reforms and Implications for Governance in India