Sunday, 23 Mar, 2025
By: Team CVoter
One Nation One Election was a central promise in the BJP’s 2024 Lok Sabha Manifesto (Image Source: Getty)
Public sentiment on ONOE appears divided, as revealed by a recent snap poll conducted by CVoter after the bill was sent to the JPC. The findings highlight varying opinions. 51.2% of respondents believe that ONOE is an important and timely reform and that the country is ready for it.
The Indian political landscape has been abuzz with debates on the concept of One Nation, One Election (ONOE) ever since the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Union government pushed forward a bill to implement this reform. The recent move to send the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) signals a significant step toward realizing this proposal. While the government frames this as a transformative reform aimed at efficiency, questions about its impact on India’s democratic framework remain contentious.
The idea of One Nation, One Election proposes simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies across the country. This aims to reduce the frequency of elections and associated costs. Currently, elections in India are held at staggered intervals, which not only increases expenditure but also affects policy implementation due to frequent imposition of the Model Code of Conduct.
Government’s Push for ONOE
The BJP has been at the forefront of advocating for ONOE, framing it as a necessary reform for good governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasized the financial and administrative savings it would bring. The government argues that continuous election cycles lead to policy paralysis, disruption of public services, and misuse of resources. Proponents highlight the potential for better planning and stability in governance.
In September 2023, the Union government took a decisive step by introducing the ONOE bill in Parliament and referring it to a JPC for further deliberations. This committee will examine the constitutional and logistical challenges, including the need to amend several provisions related to the Election Commission, dissolution of assemblies, and terms of elected bodies.
51% Want ONOE, 25% Say India Not Ready
Public sentiment on ONOE appears divided, as revealed by a recent snap poll conducted by CVoter after the bill was sent to the JPC. The findings highlight varying opinions. 51.2% of respondents believe that ONOE is an important and timely reform and that the country is ready for it. 25.3% agree with the importance of the concept but feel that India is not yet prepared for such a significant change, emphasizing the need for more deliberation and public discussion. 16.6% are firmly against implementing ONOE, viewing it as incompatible with the country’s democratic structure.
When broken down by political affiliation, the survey shows overwhelming support for ONOE among NDA+ supporters, with 70.7% backing the move. In contrast, 41.3% of respondents aligned with other parties (OTH+) expressed readiness for the reform. This stark difference reflects the political dimension of the debate.
Governance Stability Vs Compromised Democracy
The potential impact of ONOE on India’s democratic system is complex. Supporters argue that it would enhance governance stability, reduce electoral expenditure, and allow governments to focus on long-term policy implementation without frequent electoral distractions. Additionally, voter fatigue would decrease, potentially improving voter turnout and engagement.
However, critics caution against centralizing elections. India’s federal structure is built on the autonomy of states, and simultaneous elections could undermine this balance by aligning state-level politics too closely with national issues. Constitutional amendments required for ONOE could dilute state powers and lead to a more homogenized political discourse.
Experts also point to logistical challenges, including securing adequate electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) systems for simultaneous elections across India’s vast electorate.
The Road Ahead
The JPC’s review of the ONOE bill will be critical in shaping the future of this ambitious reform. Broader consultations with stakeholders, political parties, and civil society will determine its feasibility and acceptability. If implemented, ONOE could redefine the electoral landscape, bringing both efficiency and contentious political realignments.
In conclusion, while the promise of One Nation, One Election aligns with aspirations for governance efficiency, its implications for federalism and democratic diversity require thoughtful consideration. Balancing reform with the principles of a vibrant democracy remains the central challenge as India navigates this complex policy decision.
The CVoter Snap Poll was done through CATI interviews among 18+ adults nationwide. The data is weighted to the known demographic profile as per the census and final ECI results. The sample spread is across all districts covering all States. MoE is +/- 3% at macro level and +/- 5% at micro level trends with 95% Confidence interval.
