One Nation, One Election: A Threat to Democracy and Diversity

A Christian and Democratic Perspective

The proposal of “One Nation, One Election” has been gaining momentum in India, but it raises significant concerns from a Christian and democratic perspective. The idea of synchronising all elections in the country, from the Lok Sabha to state legislative assemblies and even panchayats, may seem efficient, but it has far reaching implications that could undermine the very fabric of our democracy.

Undermining Regional Voices

From a Christian perspective, the concept of “One Nation, One Election” can be seen as a threat to the diversity and representation of regional voices. The Bible teaches us to respect and value the diversity of God’s creation (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). By holding simultaneous elections, regional parties and independent candidates may find it challenging to compete with national parties, potentially silencing the voices of marginalised communities, including Christians.

Eroding Federalism

The “One Nation, One Election” proposal also erodes the principles of federalism, which is a cornerstone of Indian democracy. By synchronising elections, the central government may exert undue influence over state governments, undermining their autonomy and decision-making power. This could lead to a concentration of power, contrary to the democratic principles of decentralisation and accountability.

Disadvantaging Regional Parties

Regional parties, which often represent the interests of specific communities, including Christians, may struggle to compete with national parties in a simultaneous election scenario. This could lead to a loss of representation and voice for these communities, further marginalising them.

Constitutional Concerns

Implementing “One Nation, One Election” would require significant constitutional amendments, including changes to Articles 83 and 172, which relate to the duration of the Houses of Parliament and state legislative assemblies. This could have unintended consequences and potentially destabilise the constitutional framework of our democracy.

Alternative Solutions

Rather than adopting a “One Nation, One Election” system, alternative solutions could be explored to address the issues of election expenditure and governance downtime. For instance, implementing electoral reforms, strengthening regional parties, and promoting decentralisation could help ensure more representative and accountable governance.

In conclusion, while the idea of “One Nation, One Election” may seem appealing, its implications for Christian communities and democratic principles are concerning. We must prioritise the values of diversity, representation, and accountability, ensuring that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive.

Peheutingyibe Herie,

Social Activist.