The BJP-led government is pushing to make ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) a reality in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, a reform promised in the party’s 2024 manifesto. The ONOE plan, which envisions synchronizing Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, has gained momentum with strong support from the ruling NDA. The proposal is expected to reshape India’s election cycle and ease the burden of frequent polls, a challenge Modi emphasized during his Independence Day speech. Despite opposition, the Kovind panel, backed by the government, endorses this transformative reform.
BJP’s Push for ‘One Nation, One Election’ Gains Momentum
The BJP has strongly advocated for implementing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ reform, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally leading the charge. During the 2024 general election campaign, Modi alluded to making significant changes in his third term, and ONOE is among the central reforms expected to reshape India’s political landscape. The concept of simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies is designed to synchronize India’s electoral processes, reducing the financial and administrative burden of holding frequent polls.
Proponents of ONOE argue that frequent elections hinder governance, diverting attention and resources from critical policymaking. Modi, in his Independence Day speech, criticized the recurring election cycle, which he described as a “hurdle to India’s progress.” Frequent elections, he noted, disrupt governance, prompt populist measures, and stretch the nation’s resources. By aligning the electoral timelines of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, ONOE aims to streamline the political process, allowing the government to focus more on development and long-term governance goals.
The reform has gathered pace, with the NDA confident that it can secure cross-party support. The ruling alliance sees ONOE as a measure that can unify the nation’s electoral system while reducing election-related expenses, which often balloon into billions of rupees. Despite falling short of an individual majority in the 2024 elections, the BJP, with its allies, remains determined to push forward this agenda in its current tenure.
Opposition to ‘One Nation, One Election’: Concerns of Federalism and Representation
While the BJP and its allies in the NDA are pushing ahead with ONOE, the proposal has not been without its detractors. Several opposition parties, including the Congress and regional political entities, have raised concerns about the impact of simultaneous elections on India’s federal structure. Critics argue that ONOE could undermine the autonomy of state governments by forcing them into an election cycle dictated by national timelines, reducing their ability to focus on regional issues.
The Congress party, one of the most vocal opponents of the ONOE reform, has argued that the measure could disproportionately favor national parties, weakening regional representation. In a country as diverse as India, they claim, state elections are crucial for addressing local concerns, which could be overshadowed by larger national issues during simultaneous elections. Sharad Pawar, a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), recently slammed the ONOE proposal, questioning its constitutionality and its potential impact on India’s democratic fabric.
Furthermore, some experts believe that frequent elections, while costly, serve as a constant check on the government, keeping it accountable to the people. By extending the electoral cycle to five years, they argue, governments could become less responsive to the electorate, with fewer opportunities for citizens to express their political will. The challenge for the BJP, therefore, lies in convincing both the opposition and regional parties that ONOE will not infringe upon India’s federal structure or its vibrant democracy.
Ram Nath Kovind Panel Backs ‘One Nation, One Election’
In March 2024, a committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted its report on ONOE to President Draupadi Murmu. The Kovind panel strongly endorsed the idea of simultaneous elections, asserting that such a reform would streamline governance and reduce the financial strain of repeated elections. The report highlighted the potential benefits of ONOE, arguing that synchronizing elections across the country would ensure consistency in governance and policy implementation, creating a more stable political environment.
The Kovind panel’s recommendations have been critical in shaping the NDA’s strategy for implementing ONOE. According to the panel, one of the major advantages of simultaneous elections is the reduction in electoral expenses. India’s elections are massive logistical undertakings, involving millions of officials and security personnel. By holding elections only once every five years, the financial and administrative burden on the Election Commission of India and other government agencies would be significantly reduced.
The panel also argued that ONOE would create a more consistent political environment, allowing governments to focus on long-term development projects without the disruption of frequent election cycles. This would give governments the stability needed to implement complex policies that require continuity, such as economic reforms, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs. However, the Kovind panel acknowledged that the transition to ONOE would require amendments to the Constitution, including changes to Articles 83, 85, and 172, which govern the terms of the Lok Sabha and state legislatures.
The Future of Indian Democracy: Simultaneous Elections as a Transformative Reform
The implementation of ‘One Nation, One Election’ could represent one of the most transformative reforms in Indian political history. If successful, ONOE could reshape how elections are conducted, reduce the financial burden of frequent elections, and enhance governance efficiency. The Modi-led government has made it clear that this reform is a priority, with the Prime Minister urging political parties to support the initiative. Modi has emphasized that ONOE is not just a logistical change but a structural reform aimed at improving the quality of governance in India.
Despite opposition, there are growing indications that the NDA is determined to push this reform through. Sources within the government have suggested that ONOE is likely to be tabled for discussion in Parliament within the next year, with Modi personally leading efforts to build consensus across party lines. The prime minister’s call for cooperation on ONOE during his Independence Day speech signals the seriousness with which the government is pursuing this reform. According to insiders, the government remains confident that the measure will pass and that the cohesion within the ruling alliance will continue throughout Modi’s third term.
The road ahead, however, is fraught with challenges. Convincing opposition parties of ONOE’s merits will require significant negotiation, especially with regional parties concerned about the impact on local governance. The constitutional amendments required for ONOE are also likely to face legal scrutiny, with the opposition expected to challenge the measure both in Parliament and in the courts. Nevertheless, the Modi government appears committed to making ‘One Nation, One Election’ a reality during its current tenure, a move that could redefine India’s democratic processes for decades to come.
Opposition and Legal Challenges: The Battle Over ONOE’s Constitutionality
One of the major obstacles facing the implementation of ONOE is the question of its constitutionality. Legal experts and opposition leaders alike have raised concerns about whether simultaneous elections would violate India’s federal structure, which grants significant autonomy to state governments. The Constitution currently allows for separate election cycles for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, and any attempt to synchronize these elections would require substantial amendments to the law.
The opposition has already signaled that it intends to challenge ONOE in court, arguing that the proposal could infringe upon the constitutional rights of state governments. Critics claim that by forcing state assemblies to align with the Lok Sabha’s election schedule, the government could undermine the principle of federalism, which is enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The Supreme Court is likely to play a pivotal role in determining the constitutionality of ONOE, with legal scholars anticipating a lengthy legal battle if the reform is implemented.
Furthermore, opposition parties have raised concerns about the practical challenges of implementing ONOE. In states where assemblies are dissolved prematurely, would elections be delayed until the next Lok Sabha cycle, or would by-elections be held? How would the government ensure that the electoral process remains fair and transparent under this new system? These questions remain unanswered, adding another layer of complexity to the already contentious debate surrounding ONOE.
The Economic Impact of ONOE: Cost-Saving vs. Democratic Participation
One of the key arguments in favor of ONOE is the potential for significant cost savings. Elections in India are expensive affairs, with the 2019 Lok Sabha elections costing the government approximately ₹60,000 crores. By holding simultaneous elections, proponents argue, the government could save billions of rupees, money that could instead be allocated toward development projects, infrastructure, and public services. The Kovind panel’s report highlighted these cost-saving benefits, making a strong case for the economic advantages of ONOE.
However, critics argue that the economic benefits of ONOE must be weighed against the potential impact on democratic participation. India’s elections are not just about choosing representatives; they are also a critical platform for citizens to voice their concerns and hold their leaders accountable. Frequent elections, while costly, ensure that the government remains responsive to the needs of the people. By extending the election cycle to five years, critics fear that citizens may have fewer opportunities to express their political will, reducing the overall accountability of elected officials.
The debate over ONOE, therefore, is not just about cost-saving but also about the balance between economic efficiency and democratic participation. While the financial benefits of ONOE are undeniable, the potential impact on India’s democratic processes remains a central concern for opposition parties and civil society organizations.
Conclusion: Will ‘One Nation, One Election’ Redefine India’s Political Landscape?
As the BJP-led NDA government pushes forward with its agenda to implement ‘One Nation, One Election,’ the debate surrounding this transformative reform is only expected to intensify. While the government sees ONOE as a solution to the challenges posed by frequent elections, opposition parties and legal experts remain skeptical about its impact on India’s federal structure and democratic processes. The next few months will be critical in determining whether ONOE becomes a reality or remains a contentious political proposal.
What is clear, however, is that the Modi government is committed to making ONOE a hallmark of its third term. With the backing of the Kovind panel and the determination of Prime Minister Modi, the government is likely to continue building momentum for this reform. Whether ONOE will ultimately reshape India’s political landscape remains to be seen, but its potential to transform the electoral process makes it one of the most significant political reforms of the decade.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is ‘One Nation, One Election’ and why is it important?
‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) is a proposed electoral reform aimed at synchronizing the elections for both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. This idea, championed by the BJP, envisions a unified election cycle every five years, replacing the current system of frequent, staggered elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has argued that ONOE will reduce the financial burden on the government and administrative machinery, streamline governance, and allow elected officials to focus more on development rather than continuous campaigning. It also seeks to address the disruptions caused by frequent elections, which Modi described as a major hurdle to India’s progress.
How will ‘One Nation, One Election’ impact the current electoral system?
Implementing ONOE will drastically change India’s election process. Under the current system, elections for the Lok Sabha and various state assemblies are held at different times, creating a cycle of constant political campaigns. ONOE proposes that all elections be held simultaneously across the country, thus reducing election-related costs and minimizing disruptions to governance. This would mean that voters elect both their state and national representatives on the same day every five years. While it promises cost savings and better governance, critics argue that it could reduce the accountability of state governments and erode the federal structure of the nation.
What are the main arguments in favor of ‘One Nation, One Election’?
Proponents of ONOE, including Prime Minister Modi and the BJP, argue that the reform would lead to several benefits. Firstly, it would reduce the financial burden of holding multiple elections across the country. Elections in India are costly, with billions spent on security, infrastructure, and administration. Secondly, ONOE could help streamline governance by reducing the need for continuous campaigning, allowing political leaders to focus on policy and development. Lastly, the reform could provide political stability by ensuring that governments at both the state and national levels are aligned in their term lengths, promoting consistent policy implementation.
What are the concerns raised by opposition parties regarding ‘One Nation, One Election’?
Opposition parties, including the Congress and several regional entities, have raised concerns about the impact of ONOE on India’s federal structure. Critics argue that simultaneous elections could disproportionately favor national parties like the BJP while weakening regional representation. They also contend that local issues might be overshadowed by national campaigns, diluting the focus on state-level concerns. Furthermore, opposition leaders argue that ONOE could undermine the democratic process by reducing the frequency of elections, which serve as important mechanisms for holding governments accountable. Some legal experts have also questioned the constitutionality of such a reform, suggesting that it could require significant amendments to India’s Constitution.
How will ‘One Nation, One Election’ affect regional parties and local governance?
ONOE could have a significant impact on regional parties and local governance. Critics argue that simultaneous elections might favor larger, national parties with more resources, leaving regional parties struggling to compete in an election dominated by national issues. Additionally, there are concerns that state elections, which are typically focused on local governance and development, may be overshadowed by national campaigns and broader issues. This could reduce the political space for regional parties to address state-specific concerns and challenge national parties. As a result, regional governance could suffer if local issues are not given adequate attention during simultaneous elections.
What legal changes are needed to implement ‘One Nation, One Election’?
Implementing ONOE would require significant constitutional amendments. Articles 83, 85, 172, and 174, which govern the terms of the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, would need to be amended to synchronize their election cycles. Additionally, there are practical challenges to be addressed, such as what happens if a state government is dissolved prematurely. Would a by-election be held or would the state remain without an elected government until the next scheduled national election? Legal experts and opposition leaders have raised concerns about the feasibility of such a large-scale reform, suggesting that ONOE could face legal challenges if implemented without adequate safeguards.
How did the Ram Nath Kovind panel contribute to the push for ONOE?
In March 2024, a committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted a report to the government supporting the implementation of ONOE. The panel’s findings strongly endorsed the idea of simultaneous elections, arguing that it would streamline governance, reduce election costs, and enhance policy continuity. The Kovind panel also highlighted the financial strain of frequent elections, suggesting that ONOE would provide long-term economic benefits for India. However, the panel acknowledged that implementing ONOE would require significant constitutional amendments and broad political consensus. Its report has been instrumental in shaping the government’s push for ONOE, though opposition parties remain unconvinced.
What are the potential economic benefits of ‘One Nation, One Election’?
One of the primary arguments in favor of ONOE is the potential for significant economic savings. Elections in India are expensive affairs, with billions spent on security, infrastructure, and logistical arrangements. By holding simultaneous elections, the government could save a substantial amount of money that could instead be used for development projects and public services. The reduction in election-related expenses would also ease the financial burden on the Election Commission of India and other administrative bodies. The Kovind panel’s report emphasized these cost-saving benefits, positioning ONOE as a financially prudent reform.
How does ‘One Nation, One Election’ align with Modi’s vision for India?
Prime Minister Modi has consistently positioned ONOE as part of his broader vision for a more efficient and streamlined governance model in India. During his Independence Day speech, Modi referred to frequent elections as a “hurdle to India’s progress,” emphasizing that ONOE would allow governments to focus on long-term development without the constant distraction of political campaigns. Modi’s third term has been characterized by a push for transformative reforms, and ONOE fits within this agenda. By reducing the frequency of elections and creating a unified electoral cycle, Modi hopes to enhance political stability and enable more effective governance.
What challenges lie ahead for the implementation of ‘One Nation, One Election’?
The road to implementing ONOE is fraught with challenges. While the BJP and its allies in the NDA are confident in the reform’s benefits, opposition parties remain deeply skeptical. Convincing regional parties and state governments of ONOE’s merits will require significant negotiation, particularly given the concerns about its impact on federalism and regional governance. Furthermore, the constitutional amendments needed for ONOE are likely to face legal scrutiny, with the possibility of prolonged court battles. Despite these challenges, the Modi government remains determined to push forward with ONOE, making it a key priority in its third term.
Sunil Garnayak is an expert in Indian news with extensive knowledge of the nation’s political, social, and economic landscape and international relations. With years of experience in journalism, Sunil delivers in-depth analysis and accurate reporting that keeps readers informed about the latest developments in India. His commitment to factual accuracy and nuanced storytelling ensures that his articles provide valuable insights into the country’s most pressing issues.
