Question

Which among the following statement(s) is/are correct?

1. The Election Commission has quasi-judicial powers to settle disputes related to the recognition of political parties.

2. The 61st Constitutional Amendment was passed under Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

3. The security deposit for a Rajya Sabha candidate is ₹25,000.

4. The State Election Commissioner submits their resignation to the President.

• A. Only (1)
• B. Only (1 and 2)
• C. Only (1, 2, and 3)
• D. All of the above (1, 2, 3, and 4)

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Only (1 and 2)

Indian Polity and Election Commission related facts:

• Election Commission of India (ECI):
  • Established on January 25, 1950, under Article 324 of the Constitution.
  • It is a permanent constitutional body responsible for conducting elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the President and Vice-President.
  • The ECI has quasi-judicial powers, meaning it can act like a court in certain matters, such as resolving disputes regarding the recognition of political parties and allotting election symbols. This power is derived from its constitutional mandate to ensure free and fair elections.
• 61st Constitutional Amendment Act, 1988:
  • This significant amendment, passed during the Prime Ministership of Rajiv Gandhi, reduced the voting age from 21 years to 18 years.
  • This move was aimed at increasing youth participation in the democratic process. It was a landmark decision that brought millions of young citizens into the electoral fold.
• Election and Security Deposits:
  • The security deposit amount for Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha (State Assembly) elections is currently ₹25,000.
  • However, for Rajya Sabha (Council of States) elections, the security deposit is ₹10,000. This statement in the question is incorrect.
• State Election Commissioner:
  • The State Election Commissioner is appointed by the Governor of the respective state.
  • The tenure and conditions of service are determined by the Governor.
  • A State Election Commissioner can be removed from office in the same manner and on the same grounds as a Judge of a High Court.
  • They submit their resignation to the Governor of the state, not the President of India. This statement in the question is incorrect.