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About

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent constitutional authority responsible for the superintendence, direction and control of elections in India.
• The ECI conducts elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, President and Vice-President.

Constitutional Basis

• ECI derives its constitutional authority provided under Part XV of the Constitution (Articles 324–329).
• Article 324 — ECI’s control over electoral rolls and elections.
• Article 325 — One general electoral roll; no exclusion based on religion, race, caste or sex.
• Article 326 — Adult suffrage for Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections.
• Articles 327–328 — Parliament and State Legislature’s powers over elections.
• Article 329 — Restricts judicial interference in elections, except through prescribed processes.

Composition & Appointment

• Composition — CEC & such number of Election Commissioners as fixed by the President.
• Appointment — Made by the President.
• 2023 Act — Selection Committee: Prime Minister, Lok Sabha LoP, and Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the PM.
• CEC — Serves as the Chairperson of the ECI.

Tenure & Removal

• Tenure — 6 years or until 65 years, whichever is earlier.
• Reappointment — Not permitted.
• CEC Removal — Same manner as a Supreme Court Judge.
• EC Removal — By the President on the CEC’s recommendation.

ECI vs State Election Commission

Conclusion

• The Election Commission of India is a key constitutional institution that administers elections and safeguards the framework of representative democracy in India.