ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA
Introduction
● The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent constitutional body.
● It conducts free, fair and impartial elections in India.
● Established on 25 January 1950.
● Works under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution.
Composition
● Earlier: Only one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
● Now: 3 members –
1. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)
2. Two Election Commissioners (ECs)
● All members have equal powers.
Appointment
● Appointed by the President of India.
● They must be persons of integrity, experience and independence.
Tenure
● They hold office for 6 years or till the age of 65 years, whichever comes first.
Removal
● CEC: Removed only through a process similar to the removal of a Supreme Court
Judge (very difficult → ensures independence).
● Other Election Commissioners: Removed by the President on the
recommendation of the CEC.
Introduction
● The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent constitutional body.
● It conducts free, fair and impartial elections in India.
● Established on 25 January 1950.
● Works under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution.
Composition
● Earlier: Only one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
● Now: 3 members –
1. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)
2. Two Election Commissioners (ECs)
● All members have equal powers.
Appointment
● Appointed by the President of India.
● They must be persons of integrity, experience and independence.
Tenure
● They hold office for 6 years or till the age of 65 years, whichever comes first.
Removal
● CEC: Removed only through a process similar to the removal of a Supreme Court
Judge (very difficult → ensures independence).
● Other Election Commissioners: Removed by the President on the
recommendation of the CEC.
