One Nation, One Election: A Case for Reform

Democracy is the cornerstone of governance, fundamental right, but maintaining it is resource-intensive across the world. Frequent elections in India lead to financial drain, administrative burden, and governance inefficiencies. The proposal for One Nation, One Election (ONOP) aims to streamline the electoral process, reduce policy disruptions, and create a more stable economic and political landscape. While elections are essential for democracy, the recurring cycle hampers long-term planning and economic stability. ONOP presents a viable solution to enhance governance while upholding democratic principles. This article while mentioning the generally accepted issues due to frequent elections also looks into other unstated issues that frequent elections cause and thus underscores why ONOP is so very important. Former President Ramnath Kovind Committee has dealt in depth on this subject and this article aims to deal with the unstated.

Governance Efficiency, due to frequent elections and Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Restrictions

Frequent elections impose governance restrictions due to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which limits policy decisions. On average, 75.9% of the total governance time of centre and states, in a five-year cycle falls under MCC restrictions, delaying developmental work. Additionally, frequent elections for polling duties, divert educators, police and security forces,heads of governments,transfer of civil servants, and loss of knowledge for decision making when transferred.

This results in a 75% loss of productive time not to mention policy paralysis. ONOP can address these inefficiencies and ensure uninterrupted governance and education. This percentage is ever increasing due increase in security threats and a voter base of 95 Crores.Simultaneous elections reduce security deployment and other costs since votes for different bodies are carired though the same medium, , allowing better allocation of law enforcement resources for national security and development priorities.

Economic Impact: GDP Slowdown Prior to Elections

Frequent elections disrupt industries, particularly those relying on migrant labor. Labor-intensive sectors face uncertainties, leading to decreased productivity. Economic data suggests that GDP growth slows down by approximately 0.20% in the two quarters before elections.

The cumulative absolute GDP loss over three election cycles has been substantial:

• ₹6,000 crore in 2014
• ₹12,500 crore in 2019
• ₹18,000 crore in 2024 This amounts to a staggering ₹36,500 crore on a annualised basis in lost economic potential. Frequent elections amplify economic instability, particularly in coalition governments with narrow majorities.

ONOP can mitigate these fluctuations and ensure sustained economic growth.ONOP minimizes industrial disruptions, fostering a stable business environment and enhancing economic growth.

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