One Nation, One Election in India: Constitutional Viability, Federal Concerns, and Democratic Realities

Abstract The One Nation, One Election (ONOE) proposal has become an important electoral reform initiative in India to synchronize the election cycles of the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies in India. The proponents of the proposal highlight that it will help to reduce the amount of electoral expenditure, administrative burden, and ensure continuous governance by limiting the frequent imposition of the Model Code of Conduct. But it is not in these perceived benefits that the proposal raises such convoluted constitutional, structural, and democratic issues that should be carefully considered. This paper critically examines the tenability of ONOE in the context of the Constitution of India, with a specific focus on the principles of federalism, representative democracy and doctrine of basic structure. It examines whether the process of harmonizing elections would necessitate far-reaching constitutional amendments and evaluates the possible effect of such a step on the balance of power between the Union and the States. The paper also measures the consequences of fixed electoral cycles on democratic accountability, particularly when there is an early dissolution of legislatures. In addition, the paper takes into consideration institutional views, such as suggestions by expert institutions, and compares insights offered by other democratic systems. It contends that although ONOE can achieve administrative efficiency, it will jeopardize the flexibility of the constitutional design of the State governments and may overturn the autonomy of the State governments. The paper draws a conclusion that any such proposal towards simultaneous elections must be viewed with a certain degree of caution and accompanied with sound constitutional protection. The more moderate course of action, with efficiency not coming at the expense of the major pillars of the Indian system of democracy and federalism, may be offered by a phased or hybrid model, with wide political consensus and public consultation.