Context
The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners have been called by the Executive for a meeting recently.
This brief aims to understand the key powers of EC, challenges to exercise it and step needed to assert its autonomy as a constitutional body to uphold democratic value at the helm.
Analysis
What is Election Commission of India (ECI)?
Understanding Indian Electoral System The Constitution of India has vested in the Election Commission of India the Superintendence, direction, and control of the entire process for conduct of elections to Parliament and Legislature of every State and the offices of President and Vice-President of India.
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What are the important functions of ECI?
Constitutional provisions regarding Elections
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What are the shortcomings in the EC structure?
Where does the Constitution lack?
Why distance is important between executive and ECI?
The Supreme Court, in its 1995 order in the TN Seshan vs Union of India case, had also stressed on the need for the Election Commission to remain independent |
Suggestions
As the role of Election Commission is vital to the democratic setup of India and uphold the basic structure of the Constitution, several steps are needed to strengthen it.
Important reports to bring reforms in ECI
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Conclusion-
India is the largest democracy in the world, and thus, presence of strong democratic institutions will at one hand, holds public trust in democracy and on the other hand, it will act as a model for other countries to replicate.
Verifying, please be patient.