Question

Consider the following statements with regard to the Election Commission of India:
(i) The Election Commission of India was established on 25 January 1950.
(ii) The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed in the same manner as a Judge of the High Court.
(iii) The Election Commission is responsible for conducting elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A. only (i)
• B. only (iii)
• C. only (i) and (iii)
• D. All the above

Answer 1

Answer:

C. only (i) and (iii)

Election Commission of India: Key Aspects for Competitive Exams

• Establishment: The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on January 25, 1950. This date is celebrated as National Voters' Day.
• Constitutional Body: It is a permanent and independent constitutional body, established under Article 324 of the Constitution of India.
• Functions: The ECI is responsible for superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls for, and the conduct of, all elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
• Composition: Initially, the ECI had only one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). In 1993, the provisions of the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act were amended to increase the strength to one CEC and two Election Commissioners (ECs).
• Appointment of Commissioners: The President appoints the CEC and ECs.
• Removal of CEC: The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from office in the same manner and on the same grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court. This involves a process of impeachment requiring a special majority in both Houses of Parliament.
• Removal of ECs: Election Commissioners (ECs) can be removed on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
• Independence: The conditions of service of the CEC cannot be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment. This ensures the independence of the ECI.
• Limitations on Power: The Election Commission does not have the power to dismiss election officials or to punish them for contempt of its authority. It also cannot cancel votes or postpone elections on its own, but can recommend these actions to the President or Governor.