The Union Cabinet’s approval of the “One Nation , One Election” proposal marks a significant shift in India’s electoral landscape. The plan involves holding simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies in two phases, reducing the financial burden of frequent elections and minimizing disruptions to governance. This change aims to increase voter turnout, streamline policy implementation, and make India’s democracy more vibrant and participative.
The proposal’s benefits include reduced financial strain, increased voter engagement, and improved governance. However, challenges lie ahead, including constitutional amendments, potential overshadowing of regional issues, and logistical hurdles. Implementing the proposal will require ratification from at least half of the states and significant planning resources.
Reactions from political parties are mixed, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing it as an “important step” and opposition parties raising concerns. The government plans to hold nationwide discussions and constitute an implementation group to execute the recommendations of the high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind. As India embarks on this new journey, the proposal’s unfolding will be closely watched, shaping the country’s democratic future.