One Nation One Election: Challenges and Opportunities for Indian Democracy and Electoral Reform

Abstract

The proposal of "One Nation One Election" (ONOE) — the synchronization of elections to the LokSabha and all State Legislative Assemblies — has re-emerged as a focal point in India's electoral reform discourse. Proponents argue that simultaneous elections can lead to administrative efficiency, significant cost reduction, and minimization of the policy paralysis often induced by the Model Code of Conduct during staggered elections. Additionally, the model promises to foster political stability, increase voter participation, and reduce the burden on the election machinery and security forces. However, the implementation of this concept poses formidable constitutional, logistical, and political challenges.