Raman Suri
The cornerstone of a robust democracy lies in empowering citizens at grassroot levels through three-tier governance system, which is a source of immense pride for our nation, Bharat. After gaining independence, our efforts have been relentlessly geared towards ensuring that the common people have a voice in our nation’s decision-making institutions. We have strived to ensure that the benefits of state and Central-sponsored schemes reach even the last person in line, a goal that was often thwarted by middlemen prior to initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana.
However, the critical system we require has often found itself in a precarious position. Our nation has either been in a perpetual state of election mode or mired in a corrupt system that hindered the common person from making the ends meet. Today, thanks to schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana, millions of Indians have reaped the benefits of direct Government aid, leading to substantial improvements in their lives. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has ended the corrupt system and removed middlemen.
This is why our country needs uniform laws, a uniform civil code, a uniform governance system, a uniform tax policy like GST, and a uniform election system that will free us from the perpetual cycle of elections, be it for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state assemblies, or local bodies, including Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The Union Government has taken the first step by forming a panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind to explore the feasibility of ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) and it is very likely to submit its recommendations in the weeks to come.
Predictably, this proposal has already garnered objections from opposition parties. Though dissent and constructive criticism are signs of a healthy democracy, but rejecting it solely because it was suggested by the BJP Government at the Centre is counterproductive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech from the Red Fort in Delhi in 2014, emphasized the need for tough decisions. Since then, our nation has witnessed significant measures that have propelled us forward, including the abolition of Article 370, the implementation of GST, and resolute action against militancy.
Similarly, if the Prime Minister believes that ‘One Nation, One Election’ is in the best interest of our nation, the opposition should acknowledge that the move will proceed as per the constitutional provisions. The Prime Minister remains steadfast in pursuing actions that benefit our nation’s greater good and this is why ONOE has been proposed, action on which has also been rolled out. The opposition must come forward and debate on the issue rather than becoming an escapist.
Now, let us consider the advantages and disadvantages of ‘One Nation, One Election.’ First and foremost, it would bring an end to the chaos associated with frequent elections. The current system leads to almost bi-monthly elections somewhere in the country, diverting attention and resources away from governance and development. It is not only costly but also hampers progress as focus is disproportionately shifted to specific states or local bodies.
Second, it would curtail the practice of double-speak by politicians. Currently, some leaders adopt different personas in different regions, exploiting regional, religious, caste, and creed sentiments for electoral gains. After implementing ‘One Nation, One Election,’ political parties would be compelled to speak the truth, propose realistic manifestos, and uphold consistent agendas across all levels of governance, from Panchayats to Parliament for the reason that they will be watched by the nation and not just one local body or a state.
ONOE would also save time and resources while enhancing the Government’s credibility in delivering on its promises. Currently, no one takes the responsibility for their actions and everyone puts the blame on one another. After its implementation, ONOE would put an end to the blame game between the Centre and states, allowing for smoother implementation of Government initiatives for the benefit of common people.
Additionally, the Election Commission of India (ECI) would have ample time to revise voter lists, raise voter awareness, and rectify any discrepancies in the lists. Though it may entail additional expenses and require heightened security measures, the benefits far outweigh the costs. For five uninterrupted years, our nation could focus only on progress without the distraction of frequent elections.
One often overlooked aspect is that ‘One Nation, One Election’ could marginalize regional political parties and potentially lead to the emergence of two major political entities. This could foster more coherent ideologies and reduce fragmentation in our political landscape. Furthermore, local bodies would gain empowerment, ensuring that the mistakes made in Jammu and Kashmir-where Panchayats were neglected for more than two decades-would not be repeated elsewhere. The implementation of ONOE would guarantee streamlined governance at all levels.
Since the panel, consisting of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, eminent Jurist Harish Salve, former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari, ex-chairman of the Finance Commission N.K. Singh, and former Secretary-General of Lok Sabha Subhash C. Kashyap, begins its work, we can expect a report soon.
It is essential that the Congress party, even if it opposes ONOE, participates in the discussions rather than abstaining from the process. Constructive dialogue can lead to required amendments in the Constitution and other laws, if necessary. It is worth noting that from 1951 to 1967, simultaneous elections were held for both the Centre and states in Bharat. Reviving this practice would allow our nation to focus more on development rather than on the complexities of electioneering, model code of conduct, and rigging.
The Law Commission’s report has also highlighted that simultaneous elections would save public funds, reduce the burden on security forces, and encourage greater involvement of the administrative machinery in ongoing development efforts. Inevitably, Bharat will return to the practice of ‘One Nation, One Election,’ ensuring that our time and resources are dedicated to serving the people rather than just conducting elections. This is one step forward for a more efficient governance and a brighter future for our nation.
(The writer is Bharatiya Janata Party J&K Executive Member)
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