Streamlining Democracy: Exploring Constitutional Adjustments for Synchronized National Elections

The concept of “One Nation, One Election” (ONOE) has emerged as a significant electoral reform proposal in India, aiming to synchronize the schedules of elections to the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament) and State Legislative Assemblies. This research undertakes a comprehensive legal inquiry into the constitutional amendments required to implement ONOE, evaluating its feasibility, implications, and potential challenges within the Indian constitutional framework. The research begins by examining the historical context and rationale behind the ONOE proposal, tracing its evolution and the diverse perspectives it has garnered among policymakers, legal experts, and political stakeholders. It analyzes the constitutional provisions governing the electoral process in India, particularly focusing on the distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States, the tenure of elected bodies, and the process of dissolution and reconstitution of legislative assemblies. Central to the legal inquiry is an examination of the constitutional amendments necessary to facilitate ONOE. This entails a detailed scrutiny of Articles 83, 85, 172, and related provisions of the Constitution, which prescribe the duration and timing of parliamentary and state legislative assemblies’ terms. The paper evaluates the feasibility of amending these provisions to align the election schedules, considering the procedural requirements for constitutional amendments and the potential implications on federalism, electoral integrity, and political accountability. Furthermore, the research explores the interplay between ONOE and constitutional principles such as federalism, separation of powers, and the basic structure doctrine. It delves into the delicate balance between ensuring uniformity and preserving the autonomy of State governments in the electoral process, critically analyzing the legal and political ramifications of centralizing election schedules.