• It is a constitutionally permanent independent body.
  • According to Article 324, the election commission shall have the authority to supervise, direct, and regulate elections for the Indian Parliament, state legislatures, the President of India, and the Vice-President of India.

Selection Process of Election Commission of India as per the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023:

  • Search Committee
    • Composition: Led by the Union Minister of Law and Justice, alongside two other members not below the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.  
    • Eligibility Standard: Candidates must be serving or former officers holding a rank equivalent to Secretary to the Government of India, known for integrity, and possessing experience in election management.  
    • Action: The Search Committee prepares a panel of five candidates to submit to the Selection Committee.
  • Selection Committee
    • Composition: 
      • Prime Minister (Chairperson)  
      • Leader of the Opposition (or the leader of the single largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha)  
      • A Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister 
    • The Selection Committee reviews the panel submitted by the Search Committee, selects the final candidate(s), and formally recommends them to the President.
  • The President of India officially appoints the CEC and ECs by warrant under their hand and seal

 

Source: The Hindu

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