One Nation, One Election: Sunil Bansal Highlights Its Importance for India's Development

Sunil Bansal advocates for the One Nation, One Election initiative, arguing it is crucial for India's development and reducing election costs. He highlights the financial burden of frequent elections and calls for reform to enhance stability and prosperity.

Sunil Bansal, BJP general secretary, emphasised the importance of the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) initiative for India's swift development and prosperity. He highlighted that India, as the world's largest democracy, faces numerous challenges due to ongoing elections. Bansal spoke at a symposium on ONOE, advocating for this reform to address these issues.

Bansal noted that the ONOE model could enhance India's socio-economic and political framework. He believes it will contribute to building a stable and prosperous nation. The 2019 general elections cost Rs 60,000 crore, while the 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw expenses rise to Rs 1.35 lakh crore. Bansal claimed that each voter costs approximately Rs 1,400 on average.

Economic Impact of Frequent Elections

The BJP leader pointed out that frequent elections lead to significant financial burdens. He estimated that India spends between Rs 4-7 lakh crore annually due to repeated elections. This expenditure not only strains resources but also diverts energy and time from government employees.

Bansal explained that the repeated implementation of the model code of conduct hampers policy-making, welfare schemes, and developmental projects. He suggested that adopting ONOE could save an amount equivalent to 1.5% of India's GDP.

Benefits of Simultaneous Elections

According to Bansal, ONOE would bolster economic growth by reducing unexpected campaign costs. It would also enhance India's economy and administrative system while improving its democratic image globally. State BJP president Manmohan Samal echoed these sentiments.

Samal stated that simultaneous elections would significantly cut expenses, allowing surplus funds to be redirected towards education, health, infrastructure, and other development initiatives. He added that this approach would increase administrative efficiency and lessen the burden on security forces.

Both leaders believe that ONOE will facilitate comprehensive national development by streamlining electoral processes and optimising resource allocation. They argue that this reform is crucial for India's future growth and stability.

With inputs from PTI