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Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has made steady progress and achieved historic milestones, strengthening its position as a global power. India’s democratic framework thrives on a vibrant electoral process that empowers citizens to actively shape governance at all levels. Since independence, more than 400 elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies have demonstrated the Election Commission of India’s commitment to fairness and transparency.
However, the frequent and staggered nature of these elections has prompted discussions about the need for a more efficient system. This has renewed interest in the concept of “One Nation, One Election.” Also known as simultaneous elections, this proposal advocates holding elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies on the same day. Voters would cast their ballots for both levels of government within their constituencies, although the process could still be conducted in multiple phases across the country. The objective of synchronizing these election timelines is to improve administrative efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize disruptions caused by consecutive electoral cycles.
The report of the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections in India was released in 2024. It provided a broad framework for implementing the simultaneous election approach. The Union Cabinet accepted the committee’s recommendations on September 18, 2024, marking a significant step toward electoral reform.
This system is expected to enhance administrative efficiency, reduce election-related costs, and promote policy consistency. Given India’s aspiration to streamline
The report of the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections in India was released in 2024. It provided a broad framework for implementing the simultaneous election approach
governance and align democratic processes, the concept of “One Nation, One Election” has emerged as a major reform initiative that requires extensive deliberation and consensus.
Historically, the idea of simultaneous elections is not new to India. Following the adoption of the Constitution, elections to the Lok Sabha and all State Legislative Assemblies were held simultaneously from 1951 to 1967.
The following key points emerge from the findings of the report released by the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections, chaired by Hon’ble former President Ram Nath Kovind:
• With elections taking place in various parts of the country, political parties, their leaders, legislators, and both state and central governments often divert their focus toward election preparations rather than prioritizing governance. Holding simultaneous elections would enable governments to concentrate on developmental activities and the implementation of policies aimed at promoting public welfare.
• The enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct during elections frequently disrupts regular administrative functions and development initiatives. Such disruptions hinder the progress of important welfare schemes and create uncertainty in governance. Conducting simultaneous elections would minimize the duration and frequency of the Code of Conduct being in effect, thereby preventing delays in policy decisions and ensuring continuity in governance.
• Moreover, elections require the deployment of a large number of personnel, including polling officers and government officials, which has significant implications for resource utilization. Simultaneous elections would reduce the need for repeated deployments, allowing government officials and agencies to focus more effectively on their core responsibilities rather than on election-related duties.
• Holding simultaneous elections does not diminish the role of regional parties; rather, it strengthens their ability to focus on localized issues. This framework allows regional parties to emphasize their core concerns and aspirations without being overshadowed by national campaign narratives. Consequently, local issues retain their importance, ensuring that regional voices remain relevant within the broader democratic process.
• Simultaneous elections also promote a fairer distribution of opportunities and responsibilities within political parties. At present, it is not uncommon for a few leaders to dominate the electoral landscape, contesting multiple elections and monopolizing key positions. Under a simultaneous election framework, there is greater potential for diversity and inclusiveness among political representatives. This, in turn, facilitates the emergence of a broader range of leaders who can contribute meaningfully to the democratic process.
• The current cycle of frequent elections often diverts attention from governance, as political parties concentrate their efforts on continuous campaigning. This focus on electoral activities can detract from policy formulation and developmental initiatives. Conducting simultaneous elections would allow parties to dedicate more time to addressing citizens’ needs, fostering a more constructive and less confrontational political environment.
• Holding simultaneous elections can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with multiple election cycles. This model minimizes expenses related to the deployment of manpower, equipment, and security resources for each separate election. The resulting economic benefits include more efficient resource allocation, improved fiscal management, and the creation of an environment conducive to economic growth and investor confidence.
• In keeping with the spirit of national unity and public service, there is a growing need to promote diversity and inclusiveness among all citizens and government functionaries. Such inclusiveness will foster the emergence of a broad spectrum of leaders who can make meaningful contributions to the democratic process and the nation’s development.
• The current cycle of frequent elections across the country often diverts attention from good governance. Political parties tend to focus more on election-related activities aimed at securing victory, leaving limited time for development and essential administrative work. Conducting simultaneous elections would allow parties to focus more effectively on addressing the needs of citizens, thereby reducing political conflict and encouraging more constructive engagement.
• Holding simultaneous elections can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with conducting multiple election cycles. This model minimizes expenses related to manpower, equipment, and security deployment for each separate election. The resulting economic benefits include more efficient resource allocation, improved fiscal management, and the creation of an environment conducive to sustained economic growth and investor confidence.
Keeping the interests of the motherland and the nation paramount, Prime Minister Naendra Modi remains committed and determined to restore India to its rightful place as a Vishwaguru — a guiding light for the world. Through his unwavering dedication and selfless service to Maa Bharati, he continues to lead the nation toward holistic progress and global recognition.
The proposed phased approach to implementing simultaneous elections is expected to pave the way for a more efficient and stable electoral environment in India. With broad public and political support, the concept of simultaneous elections is poised to streamline the country’s democratic processes and enhance the overall efficiency of governance.
(The writer is National President of BJP Kisan Morcha)