One Nation One Election

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One Nation One Election

The One Nation One Election proposal aims to synchronize elections across India, raising questions about its inclusivity and alignment with democratic principles.

The 129th Constitutional Amendment Bill, 2024, proposes simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State/Union Territory Assemblies by amending Article 82A and introducing related provisions. The bill seeks to reduce election fatigue and enhance efficiency by conducting synchronized elections, ensuring mid-term elections only cover the remaining tenure of dissolved assemblies.

While the proposal aims to streamline governance, concerns about its impact on representative democracy have been raised. Critics argue that centralizing elections could dilute minority representation, undermine federalism, and overemphasize efficiency at the expense of public inclusivity. Historical critiques by thinkers like Jayaprakash Narayan highlight flaws in parliamentary democracy, such as manipulation through populism, centralization of power, and financial costs of elections.

Concerns about procedural lapses in the draft process, such as inadequate public consultation and lack of explanatory materials, have been noted. Ensuring inclusivity and meaningful public engagement is seen as critical for democratic legitimacy.

The proposal also raises broader implications for representative democracy, emphasizing the need to balance electoral efficiency with preserving the federal structure and ensuring public accountability. Ensuring diverse perspectives and protecting minority voices remains crucial to maintaining the democratic spirit in a diverse nation like India.