One Nation, One Election for UPSC: Concept, Benefits, and Challenges

One Nation, One Election for UPSC: The concept of One Nation, One Election has emerged as a prominent subject in India's political and governance discussions. It advocates for conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha (Parliament) and State Legislative Assemblies nationwide. The proposal seeks to simplify the electoral process, minimize election-related expenses, and enhance governance efficiency. Given its growing prominence in recent years, this topic holds significant relevance for UPSC aspirants focusing on Indian Polity and Governance.

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Historical Background of One Nation, One Election

India initially followed the practice of simultaneous elections. The first general elections in 1951-52 saw both the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies conducting polls together. This synchronization continued for four election cycles (1957, 1962, and 1967). 

The simultaneous cycle was disrupted in 1968 and 1969 due to the premature dissolution of some State Assemblies and the Lok Sabha. Factors like coalition breakdowns and political realignments led to separate election schedules.

Since then, elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies have been held separately, leading to frequent elections across the country.

Key Features of One Nation, One Election

• Simultaneous Elections: Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies would have synchronized election schedules.
• Reduced Frequency: Elections would be held once every five years, or earlier if required.
• Single Voter List: A unified electoral roll would simplify the voting process and reduce duplication.
• Uniformity in Electoral Processes: Common logistical and administrative arrangements for elections.

Benefits of One Nation, One Election

• Administrative Convenience: Reduces the workload on the Election Commission and government machinery by conducting elections less frequently.
• Focus on Governance: Frequent elections disrupt governance due to the Model Code of Conduct. Holding elections together ensures uninterrupted policy implementation.
• Cost Efficiency: Simultaneous elections could significantly reduce the expenditure on election logistics, security, and campaigning. 
• Improved Voter Turnout: Consolidating elections might increase voter participation by simplifying the voting process.

Challenges and Concerns of One Nation, One Election

• Constitutional Issues: Requires amendments to multiple articles of the Constitution (e.g., Articles 83, 85, 172, 174, 356) to align election schedules.
• Operational Complexity: Managing logistics, security, and the electoral process for simultaneous elections across the nation is a significant challenge.
• Political Feasibility: Synchronizing elections for all states could face resistance from regional parties and stakeholders.
• Risk of Disruptions: A single national election schedule might lead to large-scale disruptions in governance if assemblies or the Lok Sabha are dissolved prematurely.

Proposed Solutions of One Nation, One Election

• Phased Implementation: Start with synchronizing elections for a few states and gradually scale up.
• Consensus Building: Consult with all political parties, constitutional experts, and stakeholders to address concerns.
• Strengthen Election Infrastructure: Enhance the capacity of the Election Commission and related institutions to manage large-scale elections effectively.

Relevance of One Nation, One Election for UPSC Aspirants

For UPSC Prelims:

• Focus on constitutional provisions related to elections and the Election Commission.
• Understand the Model Code of Conduct and its implications.

For UPSC Mains:

• Analyze the pros and cons of One Nation, One Election in the GS Paper II under Polity and Governance.
• Develop arguments for and against the proposal to prepare for essay topics.

For Interview:

• Be ready to express a balanced view with examples and case studies from other countries.