National Voters Day 2024: What is One Nation, One Election (ONOE)?

On January 25th every year, India proudly echoes the clarion call of democracy as we celebrate National Voters' Day. This day serves as a potent reminder of the immense power we hold as citizens—the power to shape our nation's destiny through the sacred act of voting.

India's vibrant democracy stands tall with the highest voter turnout in the world. But this accomplishment wasn't achieved overnight. It was forged through decades of struggle, sacrifices, and an unwavering belief in the power of the people. National Voters' Day honours this legacy, paying tribute to the heroes who fought for our right to choose and the countless individuals who continue to strengthen our democracy with their informed votes.

Voting is just the first step in our civic journey. National Voters' Day reminds us that our responsibility extends beyond the polling booth. It's about staying informed, engaging in dialogue, holding our elected representatives accountable, and actively participating in the democratic process.

No voter to be left behind!
Be proud to be a voter!
Be ready to vote!
Greetings on National Voters Day that marks the foundation day of Election Commission of India to encourage more voters to enroll & participate in political process by ethically exercising their franchise which… pic.twitter.com/WA3Tp4kHU2

— AAP TELANGANA (@AAPTELANGANA) January 25, 2024

On this National Voters’ Day, we appreciate the efforts of Election Commission of India in strengthening our democratic fabric. This day also marks the significance of spreading awareness on the need of ensuring voter registration, particularly among the youth. pic.twitter.com/5LDvQwERc1

— Vinod Sonkar (@BJPVinodSonkar) January 25, 2024

I pledge !

Let us embrace the #VotersPledge in its true spirit this National Voters' Day#ECI #NVD2024 #IVote4Sure pic.twitter.com/s53jH3kzfm

— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) January 23, 2024

What is the History of National Voters Day?

The story begins on January 25th, 1950, when the Election Commission of India (ECI) was established. This independent body entrusted with conducting impartial elections is the backbone of India's vibrant democracy. National Voters' Day recognizes the ECI's pivotal role in ensuring free and fair elections, ultimately empowering the citizen through their vote.

National Voters' Day was officially launched in 2011 by the Government of India to promote electoral literacy and encourage young people to participate in the voting process. Recognizing the critical role of informed voters in a healthy democracy, the day aimed to bridge the gap between awareness and action.

Also Read - National Voters' Day 2024: Theme, History, Significance, Celebration & More

What is the Significance of National Voters Day?

National Voters' Day holds immense significance for India's democracy, making it much more than just a single day on the calendar. Here are some key aspects of its importance:

1. Celebrating the Power of the People: It serves as a powerful reminder of the immense power vested in each and every citizen through their vote. It celebrates the right to choose our leaders and shape our nation's destiny, highlighting the fundamental principle of democracy - "by the people, for the people."
2. Honouring a Legacy of Struggle: It pays tribute to the heroes of India's freedom struggle who fought tirelessly for the right to vote and established a strong democratic foundation. It acknowledges the sacrifices made and the ongoing efforts to strengthen and safeguard our democracy.
3. Promoting Electoral Literacy and Participation: National Voters' Day aims to bridge the gap between awareness and action by encouraging informed voter participation. It promotes electoral literacy through campaigns, seminars, and outreach programmes, ensuring citizens have the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions.
4. Combating Voter Apathy and Strengthening Democracy: By actively promoting voter registration and turnout, the day combats apathy and strengthens the foundation of our democracy. A higher voter turnout leads to more representative governments and better policies that reflect the will of the people.
5. Inspiring Active Citizenship beyond the Ballot Box: While voting is crucial, National Voters' Day reminds us that our civic responsibility extends beyond the polling booth. It encourages active citizenship through dialogue, engagement with political processes, and holding elected officials accountable.

What is One Nation, One Election?

One Nation, One Election (ONOE) is a proposal in India aiming to synchronise the timing of Lok Sabha (national parliament) elections and the elections for all Vidhan Sabhas (state assemblies) across the country. Currently, these elections are held independently on different schedules, resulting in several elections over a five-year period.

The Lokatantra mentions: “The idea of One Nation, One Election (ONOE) means conducting the Lok Sabha, and all Vidhan Sabha (state assemblies) elections together, once in five years. This excludes elections of panchayats, state municipalities and by-elections. The initiative will need a constitutional amendment, which will require ratification by 50% of the states.”

From 1951-52 to 1967, India enjoyed a period of synchronized national and state elections. Unfortunately, this practice ceased, leading to almost yearly electoral cycles now scattered throughout the calendar. This fragmented system is plagued by several drawbacks:

• Significant financial burden: Frequent elections strain government and stakeholder budgets, with each campaign incurring substantial costs.
• Diverted resources: Security forces and electoral officials get pulled away from their primary duties for extended periods, impacting their regular functions.
• Stalled development: The prolonged application of the Model Code of Conduct during elections disrupts ongoing development projects, hindering progress.

The One Nation One Election website mentions: "Elections to the House of the People and Legislative Assemblies of States were mostly held simultaneously from 1951-52 to 1967 after which this cycle got broken and now, elections are held almost every year and within a year too at different times, which result in massive expenditure by the Government and other stakeholders, diversion of security forces and other electoral officers engaged in such elections from their primary duties for significantly prolonged periods, disruption in developmental work on account of prolonged application of Model Code of Conduct, etc."

The ONEOE proposal is currently under consideration by the Government of India. A high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind has been examining the matter and holding consultations with various stakeholders. 

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