Concerns related to the ONOE Policy: The case against One Nation, One Election

Source: The post concerns related to the ONOE Policy has been created, based on the article “The case against One Nation, One Election” published in “Indian express” on 16th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- polity-Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

News: The article discusses a proposal in India for holding all elections at the same time. It mentions various concerns and opinions about this idea, including its impact on democracy, federalism, and the election process.

For details information on One Nation, One Election (ONOE) read here

What are the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) Policy?

Two-Phased Strategy: The Committee suggests implementing ONOE in two phases across all government levels.

Amending the Constitution: They propose changing Articles 83 and 172 to enable simultaneous elections without needing state approval.

Handling Early Dissolutions: If an assembly is dissolved early, new elections should only be for the remaining term.

Preventing Constitutional Conflicts: They acknowledge the current Constitution guarantees a five-year term for each assembly, which this plan would alter.

For information on Kovind panel on One Nation, One Election read here

What are the concerns related to the ONOE Policy?

Federalism and Local Issues: Combining elections may blur distinctions between national and local concerns, possibly neglecting local needs.

Constitutional Challenges: The policy might conflict with the Constitution’s provision for a five-year term for elected assemblies.

State Opposition: Tamil Nadu’s government has strongly opposed ONOE, labeling it undemocratic and autocratic.

Election Commission’s Neutrality: Recent events raise doubts about the Election Commission of India’s independence, crucial for managing fair elections.

Logistical Feasibility: Questions exist about the practicality of conducting simultaneous elections nationwide, considering the requirements for security, officials, and voting machines.

What does the Supreme Court say?

Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court, in past rulings like Kesavananda Bharati vs State of Kerala, emphasized the Constitution’s basic structure, which includes free and fair elections.

Democracy as a Constitutional Feature: The Court, through the Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain case, affirmed that democracy, with impartial elections, is a fundamental constitutional aspect.

Judicial Review Role: In a recent case involving Chandigarh’s mayoral election, the Supreme Court showed readiness to intervene in electoral processes if they appear constitutionally unsound.

Potential Review of ONOE: The Supreme Court’s past decisions suggest it will closely scrutinize ONOE for constitutionality, focusing on maintaining democratic principles.

Question for practice:

Examine the factors influencing the feasibility and potential challenges of implementing the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) policy in India.