The One Nation One Election bill, a significant legislative move, was introduced in the Lok Sabha today amid much debate and anticipation. The concept of One Nation One Election aims to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies to streamline the electoral process. While BJP and its allies strongly advocate for the bill, the opposition has raised concerns about its feasibility and federal impact. This article delves into the introduction criteria, voting details, and the challenges ahead for the bill’s final passage.
On December 17, 2024, the Lok Sabha introduced the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, commonly known as the “One Nation, One Election” bill, which aims to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies across India.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal presented the bill, and a division vote followed. The motion to introduce the bill passed with 269 members in favor and 198 opposing.
What is One Nation One Election?
One Nation One Election, or simultaneous elections, is a proposal to align the electoral cycles of the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. This means voters across India would cast their votes for both on the same day, reducing election frequency and costs.
For those looking for One Nation One Election meaning in Hindi, it translates to एक राष्ट्र एक चुनाव, emphasizing a unified voting system across the country.
Also Read: 7 Key Facts About One Nation One Election
Introduction of the Bill: Criteria and Voting Outcome
The introduction of a bill in the Lok Sabha requires only a simple majority of members present and voting. Out of 543 Lok Sabha seats, a minimum of 1/3rd member presence is mandatory for the proceedings to take place.
Today, a total of 467 members were present in the House during the voting for the introduction of the One Nation One Election bill.
269 MPs voted in favor of the bill.
198 MPs opposed the introduction.
Since the motion required a simple majority of members present and voting, the bill was successfully introduced. However, this is just the first step in its legislative journey.
Rules for Passing the One Nation One Election Bill
The One Nation One Election bill is a constitutional amendment bill, as it seeks to alter the electoral process at both the national and state levels. According to Article 368 of the Indian Constitution, the bill must meet two criteria in both Houses of Parliament:
Majority of the total membership of the House (at least 272 votes in the Lok Sabha).
Two-thirds majority of members present and voting.
For example, if 500 MPs are present during voting, at least 334 votes (2/3rd) are required for passage.
How BJP Plans to Achieve the 2/3 Majority
The BJP-led NDA currently holds 292 seats in the Lok Sabha. To pass the bill with a two-thirds majority, the NDA will need to gather additional support from other regional parties or independent MPs. This means BJP will rely on political alliances and negotiations to secure votes.
The BJP is defending the bill by emphasizing its benefits:
Reducing the cost and frequency of elections.
Allowing governments to focus on governance rather than constant campaigning.
Ensuring policy continuity across states and the center.
Opposition's View: Pros and Cons of One Nation One Election
The opposition, including Congress and several regional parties, has criticized the bill. Here are their key arguments:
Federalism Concerns: Critics argue that One Nation One Election undermines the autonomy of state governments.
Logistical Challenges: Conducting simultaneous elections across India requires massive resources and manpower.
Disadvantages for Regional Parties: State issues may get overshadowed by national narratives, impacting local elections.
Despite these concerns, the BJP counters that the pros of One Nation One Election far outweigh the cons. Proponents argue that frequent elections disrupt governance, burden the exchequer, and hinder economic growth.
What Lies Ahead for the Bill?
The One Nation One Election bill’s passage is far from guaranteed. The BJP must secure support from key regional parties in the Rajya Sabha, where they lack a majority. Furthermore, political consensus will play a pivotal role, as the opposition remains firm on rejecting the bill in its current form.
If passed, India One Nation One Election would mark a historic shift in the country’s electoral process, transforming the way elections are conducted and governance is implemented.
Conclusion
The introduction of the One Nation One Election bill in the Lok Sabha today marks the beginning of an intense political debate. While the BJP argues for efficiency and cost-saving, the opposition highlights its federal and logistical challenges. The road ahead will require political negotiations, consensus-building, and rigorous parliamentary scrutiny. As India watches closely, the outcome of this bill could reshape the democratic process.
