One Nation, One Election: Towards Streamlined Governance and Electoral Reform
Bihari, Saket
Assistant Professor, Teachers’ Training College, Bhagalpur
Abstract
One Nation, One Election (ONOE) concept suggests coordinating the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies’ election cycles in India. The historical background, viability, and ramifications of holding simultaneous elections are examined in this study. The practice, which was in use from 1951 to 1967, was interrupted by administrative and political difficulties. The High-Level Committee’s proposals and recent debates draw attention to ONOE’s potential advantages, which include improved governance, less financial strain, policy continuity, and less socioeconomic upheavals. Using information from stakeholder, expert, and public consultations, the report critically analyses constitutional, logistical, and political factors. This study highlights the transformative potential of ONOE as a crucial electoral reform for India by resolving issues over regional representation and democratic integrity. Legal and constitutional challenges that call for changes to Articles 75, 83, 85, 172, 174, and 356 are carefully examined for their effects on the federal system and parliamentary governance. In light of the Ramnath Kovind Committee Report’s Terms of Reference, the report proposes a nuanced approach based on international experiences in nations including South Africa, Sweden, Germany, and Indonesia. It comes to the conclusion that ONOE urges careful consideration and agreement from all parties involved, cautioning against jeopardizing the standard and vitality of India’s democracy. This study highlights the revolutionary potential of ONOE as a crucial electoral reform for India, aiming to improve democratic efficiency and streamline government by resolving concerns regarding regional representation and democratic integrity.
Keywords: Simultaneous Elections, Constitutional Amendments, Electoral Reforms Governance Efficiency
Impact Statement
The proposal for One Nation, One Election—a synchronized electoral process for the Lok Sabha and all State Legislative Assemblies—marks a significant stride towards transforming India’s democratic and administrative framework. By aligning national and state elections, this reform aims to reduce the frequency of elections, minimize electoral expenditure, and enhance the efficiency of governance.
A unified electoral cycle would significantly reduce the economic and administrative burden on the Election Commission, security forces, and public institutions. It would also mitigate the policy paralysis and populist measures that often accompany frequent elections, allowing governments to focus more consistently on development agendas rather than electoral strategies.
Politically, the reform has the potential to encourage greater national cohesion and voter engagement by simplifying the electoral calendar and ensuring that voters make more informed and coherent decisions. It could also strengthen democratic accountability by synchronizing mandates and reducing instances of fractured governance.
However, the shift to a simultaneous election model requires substantial constitutional, legal, and logistical changes. It demands a national consensus, political will, and institutional preparedness to address challenges related to mid-term dissolutions, federal autonomy, and regional political diversity. In conclusion, One Nation, One Election presents an opportunity to modernize India’s electoral democracy by fostering stable governance, curbing election-related costs, and reinforcing citizen-centric development. Its successful implementation would symbolize a landmark electoral reform with far-reaching socio-political and economic implications.
About The Author
Mr. Saket Bihari is a distinguished educator, researcher, and author with over two decades of experience in the field of education. Specializing in Educational Technology, Philosophy, Research, and Psychology. He has made significant contributions to the academic community through his teaching, research, and numerous publications.
An accomplished academic, he is a Gold Medalist in M.Ed. from SRM University and a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Academic Excellence Award by Pragya Foundation and the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Global Educator Award (2023). In addition to his current responsibilities,
He has held various key positions in educational institutions, such as Examination In-Charge, NAAC Coordinator, and Dean Research & Development Cell. His extensive experience demonstrates a strong dedication to institutional development, academic integrity, and the continuous improvement of educational standards
He has authored 13 books, both nationally and internationally, covering diverse areas like educational policy, sociology, and psychology. His works are highly regarded for their depth and clarity. Notably, his books are published in multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, and German. Alongside his books, He has contributed over 100 book chapters, articles, and research papers, many of which are published in UGC CARE-listed journals.
With a steadfast commitment to innovation, he has filed a patent for an augmented reality-based classroom management system aimed at enhancing student engagement. He actively participates in seminars, workshops, and faculty development programs, sharing his insights and fostering professional growth among educators. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. from K.R. Mangalam University, Haryana, he continues to inspire through his academic endeavours and his vision of creating a more inclusive and effective education system. His contributions to secondary and senior secondary education are invaluable, making him a leading voice in the field of educational research and practice.
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