Introducing the Bill: A Major Reform in Electoral Governance
On December 17, 2024, the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposing One Nation, One Election (ONOE), was introduced in Lok Sabha by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. The bill aims to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, streamlining the democratic process to benefit governance and economic growth. With 269 votes in favor and 196 against, the bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further deliberation.
The proposed amendments to Articles 82, 83, 172, and 327 of the Constitution seek to align state assembly terms with the Lok Sabha’s five-year tenure. The Union Cabinet’s prior approval on December 12, 2024, set the stage for this transformative reform.
Benefits of One Nation One Election(ONOE)
1. Strengthening Governance
Frequent elections disrupt policy implementation as political leaders divert focus from governance to campaigning. ONOE ensures uninterrupted governance by minimizing election cycles, allowing leaders to concentrate on long-term developmental goals.
2. Reducing Policy Paralysis
The enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during elections halts routine administration. Data from the Election Commission shows months of delays in welfare initiatives due to frequent MCC impositions. ONOE will significantly reduce this disruption, ensuring smoother governance.
3. Mitigating Resource Diversion
Elections require extensive deployment of human and financial resources. Synchronized elections will reduce the repetitive use of such resources, enabling institutions to focus on their core responsibilities.
4. Lowering Financial Costs
India’s elections are among the world’s most expensive. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections alone cost over ₹60,000 crore. ONOE could save substantial funds, freeing resources for developmental projects like infrastructure and welfare programs.
5. Preserving Regional Relevance
Critics argue that ONOE might dilute regional issues. However, the bill’s proponents highlight that simultaneous elections amplify the voice of regional parties by providing them a broader platform alongside national campaigns.
6. Promoting Inclusive Democracy
ONOE offers equal opportunities for regional and emerging political leaders by reducing the dominance of established figures contesting multiple elections. This reform fosters greater representation and democratic inclusiveness.
Economic Impacts of One Nation One Election
Former President Ram Nath Kovind emphasized ONOE’s economic potential during a recent event. He noted that the model could directly contribute to GDP growth, reducing wastage and creating an environment conducive to progress. “This system,” he said, “could propel India’s economy into the top tier globally.”
Challenges and the Way Forward
Although the bill’s intent is clear, its passage requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament—a significant political challenge for the BJP. Reaching consensus among diverse political parties will be crucial. Moreover, the bill necessitates constitutional amendments and significant investment in electoral infrastructure.
Despite these hurdles, ONOE represents a transformative leap toward synchronized governance and economic efficiency. As India evolves as a great power, reforms like ONOE could streamline its democratic processes, ensuring stability and fostering long-term growth. For an aspiring superpower, this step is not just desirable but necessary.