Simultaneous elections: Misguided answer to India's political problems

While appealing, the idea of simultaneous elections overlooks evidence, poses risks, and demands critical evaluation for India's democratic health

- JAYRAKASH NARAYAN

In politics and public policy, something like Gresham's law sometimes operates. Bad or poorly thought-out ideas gain currency in preference to carefully considered, evidence-based, logically sound ideas. The idea of simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies is one such idea, appealing to the media, middle classes, and a sizeable section of politicians.

Most people are vexed with frequent elections at various levels, causing disruption and even administrative paralysis. It is tempting to think there is an easy, instant solution to our political challenges. Simultaneous elections are one such well-meaning but poorly conceived proposal. I have argued in these columns ('The reality of holding simultaneous elections' - Sept 11, 2023; and 'One nation, One election is too much effort for too little benefit - Sept 23, 2024) that the real disadvantages of simultaneous elections far outweigh the potential benefits, and we need to look deeper for genuine political reforms.

The 'One nation - One election' proposal, if it becomes law, has significant consequences for our democracy and needs to be critically examined before rushing to judgment or acting in haste.

There are two approaches to public policy. One is to gather facts and evidence painstakingly and carefully, apply rigorous logic, evaluate best practices, and innovate and adapt to suit our conditions. Such a policy is more likely to succeed and endure. Another is to go on a hunch, come to a presumptive conclusion, and try to fit facts to the idea by applying fuzzy logic. Such a policy is not only most likely to fail but may even do considerable harm.