Election Commission of India
Source: PIB
GS II: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering elections to the offices of the President of India, Vice President of India, and the Parliament, as well as State Legislatures and Local Government bodies.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body.
- Article 324 of the Constitution provides that the power.
- The body administers elections to the
- Lok Sabha
- Rajya Sabha
- State Legislative Assemblies
- State Legislative Councils
- Offices of the President and Vice President
Functions
- Conducting Elections: The primary responsibility of the ECI is to conduct free, fair, and impartial elections across the country. It oversees the entire electoral process, including voter registration, candidate nomination, polling, and counting of votes.
- Enforcement of Election Laws: The ECI enforces the rules and regulations governing elections, including the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. It ensures compliance with the Model Code of Conduct, which sets ethical standards for political parties and candidates during elections.
- Voter Education: The ECI conducts voter education and awareness programs to enhance electoral participation and promote informed voting. It educates citizens about their voting rights, electoral procedures, and the importance of democratic participation.
- Electoral Reforms: The ECI proposes and implements electoral reforms aimed at enhancing the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. It recommends changes to election laws, electoral rolls, and voting technology to address emerging challenges and improve electoral governance.
- Monitoring Election Expenditure: The ECI monitors and regulates election expenditure by candidates and political parties to prevent the misuse of money power in elections. It sets limits on campaign spending and monitors financial disclosures to ensure transparency and accountability.
Structure
- Chief Election Commissioner (CEC): The ECI is headed by the Chief Election Commissioner, who is appointed by the President of India. The CEC is assisted by Election Commissioners, who are also appointed by the President.
- Election Commissioners: The Election Commission usually consists of one Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners. They work collectively to make decisions on electoral matters and oversee the functioning of the ECI.
- Regional Offices: The ECI has regional offices across India to coordinate election-related activities at the state and district levels. These offices play a crucial role in voter registration, polling station management, and election administration.
Tenure and Removal
- The tenure of election commissioners is not prescribed by Indian Constitution.
- According to the 1991 Election Commission Act
- Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner shall hold office for a term of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
- Removal
- Manner similar to the removal of a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
- Resolution passed by the Parliament of India a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
- On the grounds of proven misbehaviour or incapacity.
- Other Election Commissioners can be removed by the President of India on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
A Chief Election Commissioner has never been impeached in India.
Significance
- Guardian of Democracy: The ECI plays a pivotal role in upholding the principles of democracy by ensuring free and fair elections. It safeguards the integrity of the electoral process and promotes the democratic rights of citizens to elect their representatives.
- Neutral and Impartial Authority: The ECI is known for its independence and impartiality in conducting elections. It operates autonomously from the government and political parties, thereby earning public trust and confidence in its integrity.
- Promotion of Electoral Integrity: Through its efforts to prevent electoral malpractices, ensure transparency, and promote voter education, the ECI contributes to the integrity and credibility of the electoral process. It fosters public trust in the electoral system and strengthens democratic institutions.
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