Published Paper Details:

India, the world's largest democracy, has long been admired for its ability to conduct free and fair elections despite its vast social, cultural, and regional diversity. Since the first general elections in 1951-52, the Indian electoral system has functioned as the cornerstone of its democratic framework. However, over the decades, increasing regional disparities, out-dated delimitation, unequal representation, and the rising influence of money and muscle power have exposed critical flaws in the current system. As India continues to evolve demographically and politically, there is a growing call for comprehensive electoral reform to ensure greater fairness, transparency, and equality in representation. Among the most debated reform ideas today is the principle of "One Nation, One Vote", which advocates that every citizen's vote should carry equal weight regardless of their state or region. This concept aims to correct imbalances in representation caused by frozen seat allocations and out-dated census data, thereby restoring democratic legitimacy and national unity. While the proposal offers a compelling vision for electoral equality, it also raises significant constitutional, federal, and political challenges. This paper critically examines the historical evolution of electoral reforms in India, analyzes the rationale and feasibility of "One Nation, One Vote," and explores its potential impact on democracy, governance, and federalism. Drawing on global comparisons and legal frameworks, the study aims to provide concrete policy recommendations for achieving equitable electoral representation in India.