ONE NATION ONE ELECTION - A DEEP ANALYSIS

Abstract

The concept of “One Nation, One Election” becomes a significant subject in India’s political and legal debate, aiming to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. Currently, elections are held separately, resulting in constant campaigning and recurring financial and administrative burdens. From a constitutional perspective, the proposal is not unprecedented—India followed this system until the late 1960s, when premature dissolutions disrupted the cycle. Reviving it would require substantial amendments to the Constitution and electoral laws. Proponents highlight global practices, like South Africa and Sweden, where synchronized elections enhance efficiency and stability. However, critics warn of challenges in India’s federal context, that simultaneous polls may dilute regional concerns, centralize political narratives etc. Thus, the debate reflects tension between efficiency and its implementation. This article extensively explores the reform’s feasibility that hinges on political consensus, constitutional safeguards, 
and careful balancing of India’s pluralistic democracy. The exploration includes the probabilities of authoritative tendencies, security threat, mid-term elections, federal dilemma, its operational and logistical complexities etc. The article critically evaluates the underlying repercussions of the reinstating the policy without disparaging the substantive advantages associated with the enforcement of the Policy.