One Nation One Election | UPSC | Drishti IAS

Summary

The video discusses the concept of 'One Nation, One Election' in India, where general and state assembly elections are proposed to be held simultaneously every five years. The video highlights the proposal's approval by the Cabinet and the role of the Ram Nath Kovind Committee, which submitted a comprehensive report supporting this idea. It outlines potential benefits, such as reduced election costs and administrative efficiency, while also touching on the need for constitutional amendments and the support from various political parties. The video also addresses the challenges and preparations required for its implementation, emphasizing the importance of voter awareness and the legislative process involved.

Takeaways

• 🗳️ The One Nation, One Election concept proposes that both the Lok Sabha and state legislative elections be held together every five years.
• 📅 The practice of synchronized elections started in 1951-52 but was later disrupted due to shifts in government timings.
• 🔍 The Ram Nath Kovind Committee was formed in 2023 to examine the feasibility of implementing One Nation, One Election.
• 📑 The Committee presented a detailed report with 18,626 pages, offering suggestions and addressing possible challenges.
• 💰 One of the major benefits is reducing the enormous costs incurred by conducting frequent elections in different states.
• 📉 The system could decrease the logistical complexity and administrative burden of holding frequent elections.
• 🚫 By limiting elections to once every five years, there would be less opportunity for the misuse of money and resources.
• 🏛️ The proposal has the backing of 32 out of 47 political parties, while 15 parties either oppose it or haven't taken a position.
• ⚖️ A constitutional amendment is required to implement this system, needing special majority approval in Parliament and ratification by 15 state legislatures.
• 🔄 In case of a hung assembly or early dissolution, special provisions are proposed to conduct elections for the remaining term until the next cycle.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'One Nation One Election'?

'One Nation One Election' refers to the idea of holding both Lok Sabha (national) and State Assembly elections simultaneously every five years. The goal is to have one election cycle for the entire country, reducing the frequency of elections and ensuring that both national and state elections occur at the same time.

When was the idea of 'One Nation One Election' first implemented in India?

The idea of 'One Nation One Election' was first implemented during the early years of Indian elections, starting with the 1951-52 general elections. During this period, both Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections were conducted simultaneously. However, due to political instability in some states, this system was gradually abandoned.

What are the key benefits of 'One Nation One Election' as mentioned in the script?

Key benefits include reduced election costs, less administrative burden on the Election Commission and government staff, uninterrupted governance without the frequent need for election preparations, and better utilization of resources, such as security forces and EVMs. Additionally, it could curb the influence of black money and prevent political instability.

What challenges are associated with implementing 'One Nation One Election'?

Challenges include the need for significant changes in the constitution, potential disruption if a government falls prematurely, logistical issues in conducting elections simultaneously across the country, and the challenge of ensuring voter awareness about distinct national and state-level issues during a single election.

Who was appointed to lead the committee for 'One Nation One Election', and when was the committee formed?

The committee was led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. It was formed on September 2, 2023, to explore the feasibility of implementing 'One Nation One Election' and to provide recommendations on how to handle the various challenges.

What role did the Ram Nath Kovind committee play in the 'One Nation One Election' proposal?

The committee studied the viability of 'One Nation One Election', analyzed potential challenges, and provided suggestions on how to implement the system effectively. The report, spanning 18,626 pages, was submitted to the current President of India, Draupadi Murmu, on March 14, 2024.

What is the current status of the 'One Nation One Election' proposal?

As of the time discussed in the video, the Indian Cabinet has approved the 'One Nation One Election' proposal, and a bill related to it is expected to be introduced during the upcoming winter session of the Parliament. Once passed, it will become law, paving the way for simultaneous elections in India.

What constitutional amendments are required to implement 'One Nation One Election'?

To implement 'One Nation One Election', constitutional amendments will be required. This includes a special majority in Parliament for passing the bill, as well as approval from at least half of the state legislatures (15 out of 28 states). Additionally, changes to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, will be necessary.

What are the two phases of elections suggested by the committee for 'One Nation One Election'?

The committee proposed that the elections be conducted in two phases: the first phase would involve simultaneous Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, and the second phase, within 100 days of the first, would involve elections for local bodies like municipalities and gram panchayats.

How many political parties supported the 'One Nation One Election' proposal, and how many opposed it?

Out of 62 political parties consulted by the Ram Nath Kovind committee, 32 parties expressed support for the 'One Nation One Election' proposal. Fifteen parties opposed it, while the remaining 15 did not express any clear opinion on the matter.