In a landmark move that could redefine the electoral landscape of India, the concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ is poised to become a reality in 2029. This initiative, aimed at holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies, has been the subject of extensive deliberation and analysis, culminating in a comprehensive report by a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
The committee’s report, spanning over 18,000 pages, was submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, outlining a series of recommendations that promise to streamline the electoral process and enhance governance. The proposal suggests a phased approach, with the ultimate goal of synchronizing elections across the nation by 2029¹²³.
Key Recommendations
The panel’s recommendations are multifaceted, focusing on constitutional amendments, legal frameworks, and practical considerations to facilitate simultaneous elections. Here are the top highlights:
1. Constitutional Amendments:
The committee has called for changes to the Constitution to enable the synchronization of elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies by 2029.
2. Shorter Terms for States:
States voting after 2024 may experience shorter terms to align with the proposed schedule of simultaneous elections in 2029¹.
3. Single Electoral Roll and EPIC:
The adoption of a single electoral roll and Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC) is recommended to ensure uniformity and ease of administration across all tiers of government².
4. Staggered Implementation:
The committee suggests a staggered approach, starting with the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, followed by local body elections within 100 days of the national and state polls².
5. Handling Hung Houses and No-Confidence Motions:
In cases of a hung parliament or state assembly, or if a no-confidence motion is passed, fresh elections should be held for the remainder of the five-year tenure².
Implications and Challenges
The implementation of ‘One Nation, One Election’ is expected to bring about a fundamental transformation in India’s electoral process. It aims to reduce the frequency of elections, minimize the disruption caused by the Model Code of Conduct, and potentially lead to significant cost savings. Moreover, it could alleviate policy paralysis and foster a more stable environment for economic growth and development.
However, the proposal has not been without its detractors. Several political parties have expressed concerns, fearing that it may disrupt the federal structure and the balance of power between the Centre and the states. The committee’s report acknowledges these concerns and emphasizes the need for a legally tenable mechanism to ensure the smooth transition to simultaneous elections².
Moving Forward
As India stands on the cusp of this electoral revolution, the debate continues to rage on the merits and drawbacks of ‘One Nation, One Election.’ The government’s acceptance and implementation of the committee’s recommendations will be a decisive factor in shaping the future of Indian democracy. With careful planning and consensus-building, India could set a precedent for electoral reforms that other nations might follow.
In conclusion, ‘One Nation, One Election’ in 2029 represents a bold step towards electoral efficiency and governance optimization. While challenges remain, the potential benefits could herald a new era of political stability and governance in India.
Priyanka 
Mehek