[TOPIC CLASSIFICATION]

Topic Type: Electoral Reforms PYQ Frequency: High Stage: Prelims and Mains GS Paper: GS 2

[EXAMINER REASONING]

1. Trap: Thinking it only affects the cost of elections. It affects federalism.
2. Confused Point: The legal difference between a Mid term election and a Dissolved assembly.
3. Anchor: The Kovind Committee report.
4. CA Hook: The 2024 discussions on constitutional amendments for simultaneous polls.
5. Mains Hinge: The tension between operational efficiency and democratic accountability.

Core Concept

One Nation One Election (ONOE) refers to the synchronization of elections for the Lok Sabha and all State Legislative Assemblies. The goal is to hold these elections once every five years.

The argument for ONOE focuses on reducing the massive expenditure of frequent elections and preventing the government from being in permanent campaign mode. The argument against it highlights the risk to regional interests and the constitutional crisis if a government falls mid term.

Key Facts

• Concept: Simultaneous Elections
• Key Body: Election Commission of India (ECI)
• Legal Requirement: Constitutional Amendment
• History: Last held simultaneously in 1951 and 1952
• Primary Goal: Cost reduction and governance stability

Previous Year Questions

Statement Elimination Guide

• Correct: ONOE would require amendments to Articles 83 and 172.
• False: ONOE can be implemented by a simple executive order. (Incorrect. It requires a Constitutional Amendment).
• Trap: Stating that ONOE would strengthen regional parties. (Incorrect. It often favors national parties).