One Nation, One Election
'One Nation, One Election' refers to the idea of synchronising elections to the Lok Sabha and all state legislative assemblies so they are held simultaneously.
'One Nation, One Election' refers to the idea of synchronising elections to the Lok Sabha and all state legislative assemblies so they are held simultaneously.
The idea
Instead of frequent, staggered elections, the country would vote for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies together, as was largely the case in the early decades after independence.
Potential benefits
Supporters argue it could reduce election costs, limit the disruption of the Model Code of Conduct, and allow governments to focus on governance rather than continuous campaigning.
Challenges
Critics point to constitutional and federal hurdles — synchronising terms, handling a government's early fall, and concerns that national issues could overshadow state-level ones. A high-level committee examined the proposal and its implementation.
Why it matters for UPSC
This is a live governance and polity debate — its rationale, benefits and constitutional challenges make strong Mains material and Prelims current affairs.
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What does One Nation, One Election mean?
Holding elections to the Lok Sabha and all state legislative assemblies simultaneously.
Were simultaneous elections ever held in India?
Yes. Elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies were largely held together in the first few general elections after independence.