The Election Commission of India (ECI): A Crisis of Credibility and Transparency
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Indian Polity and Governance (Constitutional Bodies - Election Commission of India, its powers and functions; Electoral Reforms).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies; Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act; Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability.
Key Highlights from the News
Detailed Explanation: Key Concepts
Election Commission of India (ECI):
Constitutional Basis: An independent, permanent constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Constitution.
Main Functions: To conduct free and fair elections for Parliament, State Legislatures, President, and Vice-President. Key responsibilities also include preparing electoral rolls, recognizing political parties, and implementing the Model Code of Conduct.
Electoral Rolls:
Accurate and transparent electoral rolls are the cornerstone of the election process in a democracy.
Preparing and updating electoral rolls periodically is a key responsibility of the ECI. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar, mentioned in the article, is one such updating process.
Transparency and Accountability in Governance:
As a constitutional body, the ECI is expected to operate with the highest standards of transparency. Withholding information and not providing clear reasons for decisions are contrary to these principles.
Sukumar Sen:
Was India's first Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). He successfully conducted India's first two general elections (1951-52, 1957) under extremely challenging circumstances, establishing the ECI's credibility worldwide.
COMMENTS