Vice-President Radhakrishnan Champions 'One Nation, One Election' at National CSR Summit
Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan delivered a compelling argument for implementing the 'One Nation, One Election' framework during his address at the Times of India National CSR Summit 2026. Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam venue, organized by Times Foundation, he asserted that synchronized elections across India would facilitate stronger decision-making and long-term policy focus by political leadership.
Electoral Processes and Global Comparisons
Radhakrishnan underscored the critical role of electoral processes in ensuring public participation and governmental accountability. He drew a pointed comparison between India and China, noting their fundamental differences. "China operates under a single-party system, while India thrives as a vibrant multi-party democracy where elections occur regularly across various states," the Vice-President explained.
He illustrated the continuous electoral cycle: "Following the conclusion of Bihar elections, we have upcoming polls in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. Subsequently, Uttar Pradesh elections are scheduled for next year, and the cycle persists."
The Case for Synchronized Elections
Radhakrishnan expressed concern that political performance worldwide is increasingly judged by electoral victories rather than substantive achievements for society or the nation. "This reality places political parties in a precarious position, often hesitant to make bold decisions," he remarked. He firmly stated that implementing 'One Nation, One Election' is essential to empower political parties to take decisive actions without constant electoral pressures.
Honoring Distinguished Personalities
The summit also served as a platform to recognize eminent individuals for their exceptional contributions. Lifetime achievement awards were conferred upon:
- Nripendra Misra, former principal secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honored for "public leadership and nation building." Misra currently chairs the Executive Council of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library and the Temple Construction Committee for Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.
- Justice Bela M Trivedi, retired Supreme Court judge, recognized for "judicial integrity and constitutional service."
- V K Shunglu, former comptroller and auditor general (CAG), awarded for "Constitutional stewardship and institutional integrity."
Additional Award Recipients and Program Highlights
The ceremony honored several other notable figures:
- Aruna Goenka, philanthropist, received a lifetime achievement award for "catalysing hope, nourishment and human dignity."
- Atul Chaturvedi, member of the National Company Law Tribunal, was conferred the "distinguished public service award."
- Dr. Maneesha Shreedhar earned a lifetime achievement award for "global public health leadership and institutional impact."
- Agatha K Sangma received the distinguished public leadership award for "governance and inclusive national development."
A poignant moment featured students from DPS RK Puram and DPS Faridabad performing the full version of Vande Mataram at the program's commencement, followed by the national anthem.
Radhakrishnan commended the Times Foundation for organizing the summit, which successfully convened leadership and innovative ideas, fostering a collective call to action for societal betterment.
