Govt panel to study simultaneous polls to LS, State Assemblies

Context: 

The government has constituted a committee headed by former president of India Ram Nath Kovind to explore the possibility of “one nation, one election”.

About Simultaneous Election:

• One Nation One Election refers to conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, thereby synchronizing the election cycle and reducing the frequency of elections. 
• Simultaneous Elections in Independent India: Initially, Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament) and state legislatures in India held elections simultaneously in 1952 and 1957.
• Break in Synchronized Elections: The synchronized cycle was disrupted in Kerala in July 1959 when the Centre used Article 356 of the Constitution to dismiss the Communist Party-led government, which had come to power after elections in April 1957. 

Arguments for Simultaneous Elections:

• Cost Reduction: Holding all elections together would reduce the overall cost of conducting elections as resources like personnel, security, and logistics could be optimized.
• Single Election Season: Simultaneous elections would confine all electoral activity to a single season, preventing the frequent disruptions in governance caused by elections in different states at different times.
• Uninterrupted Governance: Proponents argue that the Model Code of Conduct during elections hinders the government’s ability to announce projects or policy plans. Simultaneous elections would reduce these interruptions.
• Impact on Public Services: The frequent deployment of government employees for election duty can disrupt public services, creating obstacles for the efficient operation of government functions and service delivery to the public.
• Combating Illicit Funds: Frequent elections have been linked to the potential conversion of illicit funds into legal assets, contributing to the growth of an underground economy. Conducting elections simultaneously could mitigate this risk.

Arguments against Simultaneous Elections:

• Complexity: Organizing simultaneous elections involving multiple levels of government (central and state) is a complex task, requiring significant logistical coordination.
• Bias Toward National Parties: Critics argue that simultaneous elections could favor nationally dominant parties over regional ones, potentially diminishing the voice of regional players in the political landscape.
• Government Instability: If any government, whether at the central or state level, were to collapse before completing its term, it could lead to significant political and governance challenges.
• Logistical Challenges: Holding simultaneous elections would necessitate a substantial increase in electronic voting machines and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail machines, posing logistical and resource challenges.

Conclusion: Any decision regarding simultaneous elections should carefully consider the unique dynamics of India’s diverse political landscape and prioritize the democratic principles of representation, accountability, and efficient governance.

News Source: Indian Express