Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has called for a one-time constitutional amendment as a critical step towards implementing the much-debated 'One Nation, One Election' proposal in India. Speaking at a dialogue with students and intellectuals at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) on May 21, 2025, Chouhan asserted that the frequent conduct of elections across the country is disrupting governance and inflating public expenditure.

The Case for Simultaneous Elections

Chouhan highlighted how the current electoral cycle, with staggered Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, causes repeated interruptions in governance. "There should be a serious discussion over 'One Nation, One Election' and we should end this by bringing about a constitutional amendment," he emphasized.

Explaining the administrative impact, he said that frequent elections force political leaders and bureaucrats into perpetual election mode, thereby delaying or halting long-term policy decisions. "Senior IAS officers are sent as observers to states where elections are held, and from ministers to the prime minister, everyone is constantly engaged in election duties," he noted.

Drawing from his own experience as former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan recounted how no significant administrative work could be carried out between September 2023 and June 2024, as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into effect first for the assembly elections and then the parliamentary elections. He pointed out that during this period, "no new schemes could be launched, and government officials slowed down citing election duties."

The Rising Cost of Elections

Chouhan raised serious concerns over the escalating costs of conducting elections. He pointed out that the general election cost in 1952 was just Rs 9,000 crore, whereas in 2024, it crossed Rs 1 lakh crore. Considering state elections as well, the total expenditure could range between Rs 4 lakh crore to Rs 7 lakh crore, excluding the expenses incurred by political parties and candidates.

Such a massive financial outlay, coupled with governance disruption, forms the basis of Chouhan’s push for synchronizing elections.

Historical Context of Simultaneous Polls

Chouhan noted that simultaneous elections were India's norm in the early years post-independence, specifically in 1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967. The disruption of this pattern happened due to political instability and varying tenures of state governments.

He explained, "If elections are aligned once, by advancing or delaying some state elections, we can return to that system."

A Non-Partisan Approach

Addressing concerns about political advantage, Chouhan clarified that his party is capable of contesting elections throughout the year, but the national interest must come first. He emphasized, "This is not about benefiting any one party. It is about ensuring better governance and reducing the burden on the system."

This reflects an attempt to frame the debate on simultaneous elections as a policy issue rather than a political strategy.

Parliamentary Review of Bills on Simultaneous Elections

A joint committee of Parliament is currently examining two key bills related to simultaneous elections:

• The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, which provides the legal framework for holding Lok Sabha and state assembly polls simultaneously.

• The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, which aims to align the terms of legislative assemblies in Delhi, Puducherry, and Jammu and Kashmir to enable joint elections.

These Union Territories are the only ones with legislative assemblies, and aligning their election schedules is vital for the 'One Nation, One Election' vision.

The parliamentary committee is tasked with reviewing these bills and recommending if they are ready for implementation or require modifications.

Additional Remarks by Chouhan

Chouhan also lauded India’s civilizational ethos, rejecting divisive mindsets. He said, "Only those with limited knowledge say 'this is mine, that is yours'. Our civilisation teaches that the world is one family."

He praised the armed forces for their precise and effective operation in Operation Sindoor, highlighting India's policy of firm response to provocations without initiating conflict.

Election Technology and Supreme Court Views

On election technology, the government has repeatedly stated its preference for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) over paper ballots. The Supreme Court of India has upheld this stance by rejecting pleas to revive paper ballots, stating that allegations of tampering with EVMs are "unfounded".

This ensures that any reform in election timing will continue with the existing voting technology.

Conclusion

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s call for a one-time constitutional amendment marks a significant step in the ongoing debate around synchronizing India’s elections. By pointing out the operational disruptions, escalating costs, and historical precedent, he advocates a change aimed at improving governance and fiscal responsibility.

As the parliamentary committee reviews the relevant bills, the political and administrative landscape will keenly watch whether India moves closer to realizing the long-envisioned dream of 'One Nation, One Election'.

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