Topic: Representation of People Act
1. Discuss the virtues and shortcomings of the concept of “One nation, One election” for Indian polity. (250 words)
Reference: Indian polity by Lakshmikant
Why the question:
The question is from the static portions of GS paper II, part Indian polity and theme elections.
Key Demand of the question:
One must evaluate the pros and cons of the concept of “One nation, One election” for Indian polity.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Explain first what is ‘One Nation, One Election’.
Body:
It refers to holding elections to Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, Panchayats and Urban local bodies simultaneously, once in five year.
Discuss the concerns with existing election system (frequent elections); Massive expenditure, Policy paralysis, Impact on delivery of essential services, Burden on crucial manpower , pressure on political parties etc.
Then talk about the benefits of simultaneous elections such as – Governance and consistency, Reduced Expenditure of Money and Administration, Continuity in policies and programmes, Efficiency of Governance etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with significance.
