Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The idea of ‘One Nation, One Election’ – holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies – has gained traction in recent years, with the Law Commission of India examining its feasibility in 2018 and 2023. Proponents argue it will lead to significant savings in public expenditure and allow governments to focus on governance rather than being in a perpetual election mode. However, critics contend that such a system could diminish the government’s responsiveness and accountability to the electorate, potentially undermining the core principles of democratic governance. This answer will discuss both sides of this complex issue.
Benefits of Simultaneous Elections
The primary argument in favor of simultaneous elections revolves around logistical and financial efficiency. Frequent elections, as currently practiced, impose a substantial burden on the state exchequer and disrupt normal governmental functions.
- Reduced Expenditure: The Centre and States spend significant amounts on election security, logistics, and administrative costs. Simultaneous elections would consolidate these expenses. According to estimates (as of 2018, Law Commission Report), holding simultaneous elections could save the exchequer over ₹8,500 crore.
- Minimized Disruption to Governance: The imposition of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during elections halts many developmental projects and policy decisions. Simultaneous elections would reduce the frequency of such disruptions.
- Increased Voter Turnout: A single, large-scale election event might generate greater public interest and potentially increase voter turnout.
- Focus on Policy: Governments can concentrate on long-term policy planning and implementation without the constant distraction of impending elections.
Reduced Government Accountability: A Critical Analysis
The core contention is that simultaneous elections could weaken governmental accountability. Frequent elections, even if disruptive, provide regular opportunities for citizens to assess the performance of their representatives and hold them accountable.
- Diminished Mid-Term Correction: If a government performs poorly during its term, frequent elections allow voters to express their dissatisfaction and potentially force a change in leadership. Simultaneous elections delay this opportunity for mid-term correction.
- Reduced Responsiveness: A government elected for a fixed five-year term might become less responsive to the immediate needs and concerns of the electorate, knowing it won’t face another election for a longer period.
- Potential for Coalition Instability: In a scenario where State Assembly elections are held simultaneously with Lok Sabha elections, a different political outcome at the state level could lead to instability and difficulties in forming governments.
- Impact on Issue-Based Politics: Simultaneous elections might overshadow local issues and concerns, focusing instead on national-level narratives and personalities.
Constitutional and Legal Challenges
Implementing simultaneous elections requires significant constitutional amendments. Article 356 (President’s Rule) and Article 164 (State Legislative Assembly dissolution) would need careful consideration. The Constitution currently allows for individual state assemblies to be dissolved before their term ends, which would be problematic in a simultaneous election framework.
| Constitutional Article | Implication for Simultaneous Elections |
|---|---|
| Article 356 (President’s Rule) | Imposition of President’s Rule in a state would disrupt the simultaneous election schedule. |
| Article 164 (State Legislative Assembly dissolution) | Premature dissolution of a state assembly would necessitate a separate election, breaking the synchronization. |
| Article 83 (Duration of Lok Sabha) | The Lok Sabha’s fixed term needs to be aligned with the state assemblies. |
The Law Commission’s 2018 report suggested a constitutional amendment to ensure a fixed term for state assemblies and a mechanism to address situations where a government loses its majority before the end of its term. The 2023 report further refined these suggestions.
Conclusion
Simultaneous elections present a compelling case for logistical efficiency and reduced disruption to governance. However, the potential erosion of governmental accountability is a serious concern. A successful implementation requires careful consideration of constitutional amendments, robust safeguards to prevent abuse of power, and a mechanism to ensure that governments remain responsive to the needs of the electorate. A balanced approach, prioritizing both efficiency and accountability, is crucial for preserving the integrity of India’s democratic system.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.