1. Role of the Election Commission of India (ECI)
- The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Constitution.
- It is responsible for the superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
- ECI prepares, revises, and maintains accurate electoral rolls, including Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
- It ensures free, fair, and transparent elections through enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct.
- The Commission supervises Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and election machinery at the grassroots level.
- It has powers to counter electoral malpractices, including bogus voting and impersonation.
- ECI regulates election symbols, recognition of political parties, and election expenditure.
- It uses technology such as EVMs, VVPATs, and digital voter databases to enhance credibility.
- The Commission acts as a quasi-judicial authority in disputes related to political parties and symbols.
- It strengthens democratic accountability by ensuring inclusive and participatory elections.
2. Election Laws in India
- Representation of the People Act, 1950
- Deals with preparation and revision of electoral rolls.
- Defines qualifications and disqualifications of voters.
- Representation of the People Act, 1951
- Governs the conduct of elections to Parliament and State Legislatures.
- Regulates election expenses, corrupt practices, and election disputes.
- Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961
- Provide procedural details for nomination, polling, counting, and results.
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC)
- A set of ethical guidelines enforced by ECI during elections.
- Supreme Court Judgments
- Strengthen ECI’s powers (e.g., MCC enforcement, voter secrecy, NOTA).