India is considering implementing the "One Nation, One Election" (ONOE) policy, aiming to synchronize national and state elections by 2029. This initiative seeks to reduce election-related expenditures and governance disruptions caused by frequent polls. The proposal has garnered significant attention, with discussions focusing on its feasibility, potential benefits, and challenges.
In March 2024, a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted an extensive report recommending the adoption of ONOE. The committee suggested setting an "Appointed Date" after the upcoming general elections to mark the new electoral cycle from 2029. This would necessitate extending the term of state legislative assemblies due to expire before this date and prematurely dissolving others whose five-year term extends beyond it. The report also proposed 18 constitutional amendments, notably to Articles 83 and 172, concerning the duration of the Houses of Parliament and state legislative assemblies, respectively. Additionally, the committee recommended ratifying amendments to Articles 324A and 325 to empower the Election Commission of India for creating a common electoral roll and voter IDs with the help of state election commissions.
Public opinion has been largely supportive, with 81% of 21,558 responses favoring the proposal. However, the implementation of ONOE faces significant logistical and financial challenges. The Election Commission of India estimates that conducting simultaneous elections in 2029 would require approximately 7,951 crore. This includes updating electoral rolls, procuring additional voting machines, and coordinating security forces. The logistical challenges are substantial, with a need for additional polling stations, ballot units, and manpower to ensure a smooth electoral process.
Despite these challenges, proponents argue that ONOE could lead to substantial savings and improved governance. BJP MP P.P. Chaudhary, who heads the Joint Parliamentary Committee examining the proposed legislation, stated that even if the bill is passed by July 2028, it can still be implemented for the 2029 general elections. He emphasized that ONOE would help the nation economically by reducing election-related expenditures and the deployment of staff multiple times. Chaudhary also noted that repeated elections affect investment decisions, as investments are often stalled due to multiple elections.
The government is considering a fresh push for the delimitation exercise alongside the ONOE proposal ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. This move comes after facing a significant defeat in Parliament on the delimitation legislation. The Centre aims to hold joint Lok Sabha and state assembly elections by 2029, with the delimitation exercise being a crucial step in this process.
In conclusion, while the "One Nation, One Election" policy presents a promising avenue for electoral reform in India, its successful implementation by 2029 will require careful planning, substantial financial resources, and broad political consensus.