In a bold endorsement of the One Nation One Election (ONOE) initiative, senior BJP leader Kalraj Mishra has expressed optimism about its potential to revolutionize India’s electoral system. Speaking at an event at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, Mishra emphasized how this significant move could not only trim down the hefty election-related costs but also accelerate the nation’s overall development by paving new avenues for governance.
The historical context of simultaneous elections dates back to 1952, when independent India first held its polls. Mishra pointed out that Lok Sabha and state assembly elections were conducted at the same time without any issues until 1967. This past approach received unanimous support from various political factions, including the ruling Congress party and its competitors, such as the Communist Party.
Mishra recalled that this era saw broad political consensus, with eminent leaders like the first Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru advocating for the synchronized elections. However, the pattern was interrupted for several reasons over time.
The former governor elaborated on how the formation of new states, resulting assembly elections, and other political maneuvering disrupted this trend. He stated that actions such as the misuse of Article 356, which allows the dismissal of state governments, and the premature general elections in 1972 contributed to deviating from the earlier norm of simultaneous polling. Moreover, the extension of Lok Sabha terms during the Emergency period also played a role in breaking this continuity.
Mishra was clear in asserting that the implementation of simultaneous elections would drastically reduce both poll expenditure and the required manpower. He emphasized that this initiative is not about benefiting any political party but is rather essential for the progress of the country.
Citing the constitutionality of the ONOE, Mishra challenged the opposition to clarify which section of the Constitution prohibits this significant reform. He recalled how the Election Commission showed interest in revisiting the idea of simultaneous elections back in 1983, underlining its necessity for the nation. Additionally, he mentioned how NITI Aayog and various government commissions have backed the ONOE proposal since as early as 2016.
The journey towards realizing the One Nation One Election concept has already seen significant legislative steps. The 129th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which calls for synchronized national and assembly elections, was introduced in the Lok Sabha last December and has since been passed on to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further deliberation. Notably, a high-level committee established by the Modi government, chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, has put forth an extensive report discussing this initiative. This report, spanning over 18,000 pages, was submitted to President Droupadi Murmu in March last year, highlighting the meticulous planning and thought that has gone into pursuing this revolutionary electoral reform.
On a different note, while addressing attendees during the event, Mishra took a moment to express his condolences regarding the tragic incident of an Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed several lives, including that of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The airplane, a Boeing 787-8, was transporting a diverse group of 242 individuals, raising concerns and sorrow across nations from which the passengers hailed.
In summary, the One Nation One Election initiative proposed by Kalraj Mishra presents a groundbreaking strategy aimed not only at financial efficiency but also at fostering a streamlined and more cohesive electoral process in India. With historical precedence, political backing, and ongoing legislative efforts, ONOE may very well mark a new chapter in India’s political landscape that could enhance governance and development alike.