Advantages of One Nation, One Election
- Cost Reduction
- Simultaneous elections could lead to significant savings in resources like security personnel, polling staff, and election materials.
- The cost of Lok Sabha elections in India has increased significantly, rising from Rs 10.5 crore in the first election of 1951-52 to Rs 50,000 crore in 2019.
- Streamlined processes could reduce the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) operational costs.
- Governance Continuity
- Frequent elections often lead to “policy paralysis” as governments focus on short-term electoral gains. ONOE could mitigate this issue, enabling governments to implement long-term policies without interruptions from the Model Code of Conduct.
- Reduced resource strain, constant campaigning, and corruption could result in better governance outcomes.
- Reduced Disruptions
- Fewer elections mean fewer disruptions to public life, including the functioning of educational institutions often used as polling stations.
- Teachers and other government service holders engaged in election duties would face fewer disruptions in their primary responsibilities, enhancing administrative efficiency.
- Increased Voter Participation
- Supporters argue that simultaneous elections may reduce “election fatigue,” potentially leading to higher voter turnout and engagement.
- Streamlined Campaigns
- Political parties could benefit from concentrated campaign efforts, allowing smaller parties a better chance to compete effectively.
- Economic Benefits
- The Kovind Committee report indicates that India’s national real GDP growth could be 1.5% higher in the year following simultaneous elections.
- Fewer elections might reduce the influx of black money and pressure on businesses for political donations. During the 18th Lok Sabha elections, the ECI seized Rs 10,000 crore.
- Improved Election Monitoring
- The concentrated nature of simultaneous elections might facilitate better election monitoring, ensuring greater transparency and fairness.
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