What is Election Commission?
Historical Background
Key Points
9 points- 1.
Established under Article 324 of the Constitution.
- 2.
Responsible for conducting elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, the office of the President of India, and the office of the Vice-President of India.
- 3.
Consists of a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (number determined by the President).
- 4.
Has the power to delimit constituencies, prepare electoral rolls, and register political parties.
- 5.
Enforces the Model Code of Conduct to ensure fair elections.
- 6.
Can disqualify candidates for violating election laws.
- 7.
Has the power to declare elections void if malpractices are detected.
- 8.
Ensures voter awareness and promotes voter participation.
- 9.
Functions independently and is not subject to executive interference.
Visual Insights
Evolution of the Election Commission of India
Key milestones in the history of the Election Commission of India.
The Election Commission has evolved significantly since its inception, adapting to changing needs and technological advancements to ensure free and fair elections.
- 1950Election Commission of India established on January 25.
- 1989ECI becomes a multi-member body.
- 1993ECI becomes a multi-member body again after reverting to single-member.
- 2010Introduction of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system piloted.
- 2019Widespread use of VVPATs in General Elections.
- 2026EC briefs observers for Assembly Elections in five states.
Election Commission of India: Functions and Powers
Illustrates the key functions and powers of the Election Commission of India.
Election Commission of India
- ●Constitutional Authority
- ●Election Management
- ●Regulatory Powers
- ●Advisory Role
Recent Developments
5 developmentsUse of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to enhance transparency.
Efforts to link Aadhaar with voter ID for authentication.
Increased focus on combating fake news and misinformation during elections.
Initiatives to promote participation of marginalized communities in the electoral process.
Debate on electoral reforms, including simultaneous elections and state funding of elections.