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A nationwide News18 survey reveals significant public support for the 'One Nation, One Election' (ONOP) proposal, a plan to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections. The survey, titled 'News18 Pulse: One Nation, One Election,' collected responses from 4,573 individuals across 29 states and union territories between December 23rd and 31st, 2024. A resounding 80.1% of respondents expressed their favor for the ONOP plan, indicating a strong national preference for electoral reform. However, regional disparities in support are notable, with Central India exhibiting the highest level of approval at 90.7%, followed by North India (87.3%) and East India (84%). In contrast, support was comparatively lower in Northeast India (73.9%), West India (72.9%), and South India (69.7%), highlighting the diverse opinions across the nation.
The survey also explored public perceptions regarding the potential impacts of ONOP. A significant majority (81.2%) believed that simultaneous elections would lead to considerable cost savings for the government, reducing overall election expenditure. Similarly, 80.8% of respondents felt that fewer, synchronized elections would lessen disruptions to daily life, a sentiment likely reflecting the frequency and length of current election cycles. While a majority expressed confidence in voters' ability to distinguish between national and state-level candidates (nearly 50%), a notable concern surfaced regarding potential voter confusion. Over half (55.9%) believed simultaneous voting would not create confusion, yet approximately one-third of even those supporting ONOP expressed apprehension about potential difficulties in differentiating candidates and policies. This concern was notably more pronounced in the South and West regions, suggesting a need for further public awareness and educational initiatives to address these specific worries.
The survey's demographic breakdown reveals a diverse sample, including 66.1% urban and 33.9% rural respondents, with a gender distribution of 73.7% male and 26.3% female participants. The sample predominantly comprised businesspersons, traders, landowners, white-collar workers, and homemakers, providing a broad representation of Indian society. The survey results highlight a significant level of public support for the proposed reforms, while simultaneously pointing to potential challenges and areas requiring attention before implementing the ambitious ONOP plan. The concerns raised, particularly regarding voter comprehension, necessitate careful consideration in the ongoing political debate and the implementation process.
The parliamentary process surrounding ONOP is also significant. The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, which seek to enable simultaneous elections, were introduced in the Lok Sabha and referred to a joint parliamentary committee. The committee, headed by BJP MP PP Chaudhary, comprises members from various political parties, including the Congress, JD(U), Shiv Sena, AAP, and TMC, reflecting the bipartisan nature of the legislative discussion. The debate surrounding ONOP involves both the logistical feasibility and the potential benefits and drawbacks. While proponents emphasize reduced costs and decreased disruptions to governance, opponents have voiced concerns about logistical preparedness, particularly in light of recent instances where state elections could not be synchronized. The historical precedent also informs the debate; a high-level committee previously chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind reported that 32 political parties supported the idea while 15 opposed it, emphasizing the existing divisions on the issue.
The legislation itself proposes significant constitutional changes, including the addition of a new Article 82A to mandate simultaneous elections and modifications to existing articles pertaining to the duration of parliamentary and state legislative sessions. The bill outlines a process for establishing an ‘appointed date’ following the next general election, setting the framework for aligning the terms of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The debate surrounding this proposed legislation reflects a fundamental question about the future of India's electoral system: whether the potential benefits of efficiency and cost-saving outweigh potential logistical and political challenges. The public's expressed support, although strong, is not without qualification, indicating that thorough public education and engagement are necessary to address anxieties and concerns, especially in regions where support for the proposal is relatively less pronounced. The ongoing parliamentary process, with its inclusive representation from diverse political viewpoints, will be crucial in navigating these complexities and shaping the future of India’s electoral landscape.
Source: 80.1% Respondents Back Reform; Support Highest In Central India - News18