The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering elections in India at both the national and state levels. It ensures the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections in the country. The body administers elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and offices of the President and Vice President.
An Establishment for democratic process
The ECI plays a critical role in safeguarding democracy by ensuring elections are conducted with transparency, accountability, and fairness.
The ECI was established on January 25, 1950, under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. The ECI conducts elections for the President, Vice President, Parliament, and State Legislative Assemblies and Councils.
The Election Commission consists of three members where Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)is the head of the commission. Two additional Election Commissioners are there to assist the CEC.
Ensuring impartial election procedures
The Election Commission is an independent body. It is not influenced by the executive, legislature, or judiciary, ensuring impartial election procedures. The commission ensures the proper implementation of laws governing elections.
The ECI monitors election campaigns to prevent the use of unfair practices like bribery and corruption. The ECI recognizes and registers political parties in India. It maintains and updates the electoral roll, ensuring that all eligible citizens can vote.
Election Monitoring & Code of Conduct
The commission deploys observers to monitor elections, making sure that the process remains fair and transparent across the country.
The commission enforces the Model Code of Conduct, which sets guidelines for political parties and candidates during the election period. This helps ensure that parties conduct their campaigns ethically and fairly. It is the core responsibility to monitor the behavior and actions of political parties during elections to ensure that they adhere to the laws, guidelines, and ethical standards set forth by the commission. This helps maintain the integrity of the election process.
Authority to disqualify candidates
ECI has the authority to disqualify candidates contesting elections for violating election rules and regulations. Also, the commission can direct the government to take action if there is any violation during elections.
The Election Commission allocates and reserves symbols for political parties to represent them in elections.
Re-election for malpractices
The ECI has introduced EVMs to eliminate the possibility of manual vote tampering, ensuring an efficient and transparent voting process. In case of malpractices, the ECI has the authority to annul elections in specific constituencies and order a re-election, ensuring that the final result reflects the true will of the people.
By performing these vital functions, the Election Commission of India upholds the core values of democracy and helps ensure that the electoral process remains trustworthy and legitimate. The work done by the ECI fosters public confidence in the electoral system, which is critical for the success and sustainability of democratic governance.
