Indira Gandhi’s 1970 Decision: Final Nail in One Poll Coffin

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. In 1970, Indira Gandhi’s decision to call early Lok Sabha elections ended India’s ‘One Nation, One Election’ system.
2. The system of simultaneous elections began in 1951-52 but faced challenges over the years.
3. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government now aims to bring back the ‘One Nation One Election’ system.
4. The Congress Party, however, has strongly opposed the move.
5. This shift in election timings marked a major political transformation in India.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Indira Gandhi’s 1970 Decision

India’s journey towards ‘One Nation, One Election’ began with its first Lok Sabha and state assembly elections in 1951-52. Simultaneous elections continued until the political instability in the 1960s and 1970s altered this tradition.

End of Simultaneous Elections

In 1970, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi made the pivotal decision to call for the dissolution of the Lok Sabha 15 months before its term ended. This decision, made on December 27, 1970, led to the first general election that was separate from state assembly elections. At that time, several states had already been holding separate elections due to political instability, but Indira Gandhi’s early dissolution of the Lok Sabha brought an end to the ‘One Nation, One Election’ concept.

Congress Party’s Internal Struggles and the Political Climate

Indira Gandhi’s position as the Prime Minister was threatened due to internal dissent within the Congress Party, which led to her expulsion in 1969. Subsequently, she formed a new faction, Congress (R), and sought support from regional parties. The political situation was further exacerbated by the death of her predecessor Lal Bahadur Shastri and a decline in Congress’ popularity after the 1967 elections. As a result, Indira Gandhi opted for early elections in 1971 to solidify her power and appeal to the masses.

Why Separate Elections Came into Play

The political environment in the late 1960s and early 1970s played a crucial role in the decision to decouple elections. Frequent instability, coupled with the controversial policies introduced by Indira Gandhi, highlighted the need for the ruling party to maintain control and present a stronger leadership image. The 1970 elections, therefore, marked a crucial turning point in India’s political timeline.

Can ‘One Nation, One Election’ Return?

After five decades, the Indian government has proposed returning to the ‘One Nation One Election’ system. A high-level committee has suggested conducting simultaneous elections for all bodies starting in 2029. The proposal, however, has faced opposition, particularly from the Congress, which is critical of the potential political ramifications.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

1. Indira Gandhi’s decision in 1970 to call early elections ended the simultaneous election system in India.
2. Prime Minister Modi’s government has proposed reintroducing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ system.
3. The Congress Party continues to oppose this proposal.
4. The separation of elections in 1970 reshaped India’s political landscape.
5. The future of the ‘One Nation One Election’ system will depend on political consensus and constitutional amendments.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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