- “With ADR data showing 46% of Lok Sabha members facing criminal cases, election reforms are imperative to curb money power and corruption. Strengthening transparency and accountability will safeguard India’s democratic integrity.”
Developments in India’s Electoral Landscape
- Gender Equality: Improved voter gender ratio to 948 women per 1,000 men in 2024, closing the voter turnout gender gap.
- Judicial Endorsement: SC rulings affirm free & fair elections as integral to Constitution’s basic structure.
- Legislative Progress: Achieved 33% reservation for women in Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, effective from 2029.
- Electoral Transparency: Struck down electoral bonds to ensure financial accountability in elections.
Issues in India’s Electoral System
- Criminalization of Politics: 46% of Lok Sabha members in 2024 faced criminal cases, undermining democratic ideals.
- Wealth Concentration: 93% of elected members in 2024 were billionaires, reflecting unequal representation.
- Defections and Horse Trading: The Anti-Defection Law is inadequate in curbing legislative defections.
- Democratic Shortcomings: Factors like low literacy, corruption and inadequate political culture weaken India’s democracy.
- Regulation of Expenditure: Candidate expenditure limits implemented, but political party spending lacks regulation.
- Funding of Parties: Proposed but not implemented; aims to reduce private donations & transparency.
- Gender Representation: Progress in women’s voter participation & legislative representation uneven.
- ECI’s Independence: Appointment mechanisms and protections from removal remain areas of concern.
Way Forward
- Transparency: Introduce a National Election Fund & ban private donations to political parties.
- Strengthen Laws: Amend Anti-Defection Law and enact stricter regulations against criminalization in politics.
- Enhance Gender Representation: Expedite operationalization of legislative reservations for women.
- Institutional Safeguards: Ensure the autonomy and security of Election Commissioners against political influence.
- Voter Awareness: Promote education campaigns targeting underrepresented & disadvantaged groups.
The government, through measures like VVPAT, cVIGIL, and women’s reservation, has shown commitment to cleaner and more inclusive elections. Yet, deeper reforms on finance, criminalization, and institutional autonomy remain vital to strengthen India’s democratic foundation.
Reference: Indian Express | PMFIAS: One Person, One Vote, One Value
PMF IAS Pathfinder for Mains – Question 301
Q. The proposal of ‘One Nation, One Election’ seeks to enhance administrative efficiency and ensure policy continuity. However, it also raises concerns regarding federalism and democratic accountability. Critically examine. (250 Words) (15 Marks)
Approach
- Introduction: Write a brief introduction about One Nation One Election, mentioning its importance.
- Body: Explain how a one-nation, one-election enhances efficiency, addresses concerns, and way forward.
- Conclusion: Emphasis on a cautious, consultative, & phased approach to implement one nation one election.
