Election Commission of India: Structure, Powers and Working

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body that conducts free, fair and transparent elections in the country. It manages elections for Parliament, State Assemblies and the offices of the President and Vice President. Headquartered in New Delhi, the commission works to make sure every step of the election process is smooth and unbiased.

Structure of the Election Commission

The ECI was first set up in 1950 as a one-member body. Later, in 1989, it became a three-member body—one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners. Although the CEC leads the team, decisions are taken by majority vote.

The commission is supported by senior officers like principal secretaries and director generals. Its main office is located at Nirvachan Sadan, New Delhi.

At the state level, elections are supervised by a Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). At the district level, officers such as District Election Officers, Electoral Registration Officers, and Returning Officers manage election work.

Appointment and Term of Office

The appointment of the CEC and other election commissioners is based on the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023. They are appointed by the President of India but chosen through a selection committee led by the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition, and a Union Minister chosen by the Prime Minister.

The CEC can serve for up to six years or until he or she turns 65, whichever comes first. The CEC can only be removed through impeachment by Parliament, while other election commissioners can be removed by the President on the recommendation of the CEC.

Powers and Functions of the Election Commission

The ECI has the constitutional authority to manage elections in India under Article 324. Its main duties include:

1. Deciding Election Dates

The commission fixes the dates for filing nominations, voting, counting of votes, and declaration of results.

2. Issuing the Model Code of Conduct

The Model Code of Conduct guides political parties and candidates during elections. It ensures clean campaigning and fairness. It was first introduced in 1971.

3. Registering Political Parties

The ECI registers and recognizes political parties as national, state, or regional parties. It also grants election symbols to each party.

4. Preparing Voter Lists

The commission updates electoral rolls and issues EPIC cards (Voter ID cards). Ration cards and some other documents may be accepted where necessary.

5. Monitoring Election Spending

Candidates must follow spending limits during campaigns. Income Tax officers serve as observers to track expenses. After the results, candidates must submit a full record of their spending.

6. Ensuring Fair Voting

The commission has the power to stop the publication of exit polls or opinion polls that may influence voters.

7. Checking Candidate Eligibility

Applications of candidates are reviewed. Those giving false information or convicted for serious crimes (two or more years) can be disqualified.

8. Using Digital Platforms

ECI runs websites and apps to help voters check their names, get information about candidates, file complaints and track election updates.

Voting Process in India

Voting in India is carried out through a simple and secure system that uses EVMs, VVPAT slips, and special provisions to ensure every eligible citizen can cast their vote fairly.

Electronic Voting Machines

India uses Electronic Voting Machines to make voting faster and more reliable. The first trial took place in Kerala in 1982. Today, EVMs are used across the country.

These machines are made by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL).

Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

VVPAT gives a paper slip for a few seconds showing the voter’s choice. It was first tested in 2013 and later used nationwide.

NOTA Option

Since 2014, voters can choose NOTA (None of the Above) if they do not want to vote for any candidate. The NOTA symbol was introduced in 2015.

Postal Voting

Postal voting is allowed for limited groups such as:

• Armed forces and police personnel
• Government staff posted abroad
• People in preventive detention
• Senior citizens aged 80+
• Persons with physical disabilities

These voters receive a postal ballot and return it by post.

Special Assistance for Voters with Disabilities

The ECI provides services like sign language support and home voting (for eligible categories) to make voting easier for differently-abled voters.