Talk about the make-up and functions of the Indian Election Commission.
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Talk about the make-up and functions of the Indian Election Commission.
Composition of the Election Commission of India:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering electoral processes in the country. The composition of the Election Commission is outlined in Article 324 of the Constitution of India. As of my knowledge cutoff in January 2022, the Election Commission comprises the following:
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC): The CEC is the head of the Election Commission and is appointed by the President of India. The CEC is usually a retired senior civil servant or a former judge of the Supreme Court or High Court. The CEC leads the Election Commission and oversees its functioning.
Election Commissioners: The Election Commission can have up to two additional Election Commissioners, also appointed by the President. Like the CEC, these Commissioners are typically retired civil servants or judges. The collective decisions of the Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commissioners shape the policies and decisions of the Election Commission.
Role and Functions:
The Election Commission of India plays a pivotal role in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in the country. Its functions include:
Conducting Elections: The primary responsibility of the Election Commission is to conduct elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
Delimitation of Constituencies: The ECI is involved in the process of delimitation, which involves defining the boundaries of constituencies to ensure fair representation based on population changes.
Voter Registration and Electoral Rolls: The Commission oversees the preparation and revision of electoral rolls, ensuring that eligible citizens are registered to vote. It employs technology to streamline this process and enhance accuracy.
Political Party Recognition: The Election Commission recognizes political parties and grants them symbols. It regulates the registration and functioning of political parties, ensuring compliance with established norms.
Code of Conduct: The ECI enforces the Model Code of Conduct during elections to ensure fair play and prevent the abuse of governmental resources for electoral gains.
Monitoring Election Expenditure: The Commission monitors the election expenditure of political parties and candidates to prevent the use of illicit funds and maintain a level playing field.
Addressing Electoral Malpractices: The Election Commission takes measures to prevent electoral malpractices, including the misuse of money, muscle power, and other illegal means to influence voters.
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs): The ECI oversees the use of Electronic Voting Machines, ensuring their proper functioning and security to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
Voter Education: The Commission conducts voter education programs to enhance voter awareness and participation in the electoral process.
Dispute Resolution: The Election Commission adjudicates disputes related to elections, addressing complaints and violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
The Election Commission of India operates as an impartial and independent body, upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. Its role is crucial in fostering public confidence in the democratic system and preserving the sanctity of elections in India.