Centre forms panel on “One nation, one election” proposal. Here is what it could mean for J&K.

The ONE proposal has been around for many years, but it has gained renewed attention in recent years, particularly from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP has argued that ONE would save money, time  and strengthen the federal system.

What would it mean for J&K?

Like other states and union territories pf the country, it would mean the elections to both Lok Sabha and State Assembly would be held simultaneously, on the same dates. J&K’s political parties are yet to formally react to this development.

What is the central government’s position on the matter?

The government believes that holding simultaneous elections would save the government money on election expenses. It also believes that simultaneous elections would make it more difficult for politicians to engage in corrupt practices, such as vote buying.

Importantly, it believes that simultaneous elections would give the central government more control over the state governments, which could help to strengthen the federal system.

How are the opposition parties responding to the development? 

The ONE proposal has also been met with opposition from some quarters. Critics argue that it would be too expensive and disruptive, and that it would give the ruling party an unfair advantage.

Diverse parties and civil society are intrepreting the development differently. One thought believes that if ONE is implemented, it would have a significant impact on India’s political system and parties. It would mean that elections would be held every five years, instead of every three to four years as is currently the case. This would give parties less time to campaign and raise funds, and it could lead to a decline in voter turnout.

Some regional parties also believe that ONE could also make it more difficult for regional parties to win elections. Currently, regional parties can often play a kingmaker role in state elections, but this would be less likely if all elections were held simultaneously, they believe.

Some parties also believe that simultaneous elections would disrupt the country’s economy and society.

They also believe that any  ruling party would have an unfair advantage in simultaneous elections, as it would be able to use its resources to campaign more effectively.