• UGI USER
  • Apr 28, 2024
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“NAVIGATING THE PATH OF ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION”

Syllabus:

  • GS-2- Elections in India  and related reforms ,Election Commission of India

Focus :

  • The proposal of One Nation, One Election has garnered attention, sparking debates about its implications on national unity and regional loyalties.

Introduction:

  • India’s democratic landscape has been shaped by diverse linguistic tapestry and regional pride, where elections serve as pillars supporting citizen engagement and democratic participation.
  • The proposal of One Nation, One Election has garnered attention, sparking debates about its implications on national unity and regional loyalties.

Historical Context and Rationale:

  • The idea of synchronizing elections across different levels of government is not new.
  • As far back as September 1982, the Election Commission of India recommended simultaneous elections to both the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
  • The recent embrace of One Nation, One Election by the ruling party has raised questions about the underlying motivations and potential implications, particularly ahead of the 2024 general election.
About ECI :

  • In India, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent constitutional body tasked with running the Union and State electoral systems.
  • It was founded on January 25, 1950, National Voters’ Day, in compliance with the Constitution. The commission’s secretariat is located in New Delhi.
  • Elections to the State Legislative Assemblies, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and Indian presidential and vice presidential posts are managed by this body.

Electoral Expenditure and Economic Impact:

  • Elections in India entail substantial costs, with campaigning and political advertising constituting a significant portion of expenditure.
  • For example, between February and May 2019, Google and Facebook reported significant spending on political online advertising.
  • Reducing the frequency of elections could disrupt sectors such as advertising, hospitality, and transportation, which thrive on heightened electoral activity.

Implications on Federalism and Regional Dynamics:

  • The proposal of One Nation, One Election raises concerns about its impact on federalism and regional dynamics.
  • Recent issues in states like Manipur highlight the challenges of synchronizing elections across different levels of government.
  • Thorough deliberation and stakeholder engagement are essential to address the diverse needs of states and ensure that any changes uphold democratic principles.

Debate and Perspectives:

  • The idea of One Nation, One Election has elicited contrasting perspectives.
  • Proponents argue that synchronizing elections would bolster national unity by aligning electoral cycles and directing political discourse towards pressing national issues.
  • However, sceptics raise concerns that such unity could merely serve as a facade concealing broader political agendas.

Accountability and Democratic Principles:

  • Another significant issue is the prospect of diminished accountability if elections are held every five years.
  • Holding elections simultaneously may spark doubts regarding the government’s responsiveness to pressing concerns, potentially undermining democratic principles.
  • Moreover, it could impact the ability of citizens to hold governments accountable through electoral processes.

Grassroots Consensus and Socio-political Fabric:

  • India’s vibrant democratic landscape is characterized by diverse socio-political fabric.
  • Electoral reforms must consider this unique context and complexities inherent to the nation.
  • Decisions regarding electoral reforms should stem from grassroots consensus rather than blindly emulating foreign models. It is crucial to ensure that any changes uphold democratic principles and address the diverse needs of the populace.

Conclusion:

  • The concept of One Nation, One Election presents both opportunities and challenges for India’s democracy.
  • While it has the potential to streamline governance processes and reduce electoral expenditure, it also raises concerns about federalism, regional dynamics, and accountability.
  • Thorough deliberation and stakeholder engagement are essential to navigate the path of electoral reforms and uphold democratic principles in India

Source:The Pioneer

Mains Practice Question :

GS-2

“Discuss the concept of One Nation, One Election in India, its historical context, recent embrace by the ruling party, and the implications for democracy, federalism, and regional dynamics. Evaluate the contrasting perspectives and the necessity for grassroots consensus in electoral reforms.” (250 words)