Question

Which of the following statements are correct regarding the Election Commission of India?

1. The Election Commission of India was established on 25 January 1950, and National Voters' Day is celebrated on the same date since 2011.

2. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners have the same powers and receive salaries equivalent to a Judge of the High Court.

3. The Election Commission became a multi-member body just before the 1989 general elections and has remained so since.

• A. 1 only
• B. 2 only
• C. 1 and 3 only
• D. 1 and 2 only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

Election Commission of India (ECI)

• Constitutional Body: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a permanent and independent constitutional body established by the Constitution of India.
• Establishment Date: It was set up on 25th January 1950.
• National Voters' Day: To commemorate the establishment of the ECI and to encourage more young voters to take part in the electoral process, National Voters' Day has been celebrated every year on 25th January since 2011.
• Composition: Initially, the ECI was a single-member body. However, it was made a multi-member body for the first time in October 1989, just before the 9th Lok Sabha elections. It has continued to be a multi-member body since then, consisting of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two other Election Commissioners.
• Powers and Status of Commissioners: The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and the other Election Commissioners have the same powers and are entitled to the same salary, allowances, and privileges as are admissible to a Judge of the Supreme Court of India. This is a significant aspect as it ensures their independence and impartiality. (Note: The initial statement mentioned High Court Judge salary, but it is Supreme Court Judge salary).
• Removal of Commissioners: The CEC can be removed from office in like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court. The other Election Commissioners can be removed on the recommendation of the CEC.
• Functions: The ECI is responsible for superintendence, direction, and control of the entire process of elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India.
• Insolvency and Disqualification: Matters related to the disqualification of Members of Parliament are decided by the President in accordance with the opinion of the Election Commission.