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2 New Election Commissioners of India
New Election Commissioners
In a significant development, on 14th March 2024, two former bureaucrats, Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar, have been named as the new Election Commissioners, joining the Chief Election Commissioner to form the three-member commission.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a vital role in upholding the democratic principles of the world’s largest democracy. As an autonomous constitutional body, the ECI is responsible for conducting free and fair elections to the Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
Who are Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar?
Sukhbir Sandhu is a distinguished bureaucrat with an impressive track record.
Gyanesh Kumar, on the other hand, is a 1988-batch Kerala-cadre IAS officer. Gyanesh Kumar oversaw the abrogation of Article 370, during his tenure in the Home Ministry.
How are Election Commissioners Selected in India?
The selection process for Election Commissioners in India is governed by the Constitution. Article 324 of the Constitution provides that the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners shall, subject to the provisions of any law made by Parliament, be made by the President.
In December 2023, the Parliament passed the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Office and Terms of Office) Bill, 2023, which provides a structured mechanism for the appointment of Election Commissioners. As per the new law, the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners shall be appointed by the President on the recommendation of a selection committee consisting of the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister.
New selection process of Election Commissioner in India
| Election Commissioner in India | Details |
|---|---|
| Appointment Authority | President of India |
| Recommendation Committee | – Prime Minister (Chairperson) – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha – Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister |
| Eligibility for CEC and ECs | Persons holding or have held a post equivalent to the rank of Secretary to the Government of India, with integrity and experience in election management. |
| Term of Office | 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. No eligibility for re-appointment |
| Salary and Allowances | Equivalent to that of a Supreme Court Judge |
| Removal | CEC can be removed in a manner similar to a Supreme Court judge. Other ECs can be removed on the recommendation of the CEC |
Election Commission of India
The Election Commission of India is a permanent constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Constitution. It consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and two other Election Commissioners, who are appointed by the President for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
The ECI is responsible for the superintendence, direction, and control of the entire electoral process in the country. It conducts elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, State Legislative Councils, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
The Commission is assisted by a Secretariat located in New Delhi and headed by a Secretary-General. At the state level, the Chief Electoral Officer, who is usually an IAS officer of Principal Secretary rank, assists the Commission in conducting elections. The District Magistrates, Electoral Registration Officers, and Returning Officers also play crucial roles in the electoral process at the district and constituency levels.
The Role of Bureaucrats in Indian Politics
The appointment of former bureaucrats to key positions in the Election Commission highlights the significant role played by civil servants in Indian politics. Bureaucrats bring with them a wealth of administrative experience and expertise, which can be invaluable in navigating the complex political landscape and ensuring the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.
However, the trend of appointing bureaucrats to political positions in India has also raised concerns about the politicization of the Indian bureaucracy. Experts argue that such appointments blurs the lines between the executive and the bureaucracy, potentially compromising the neutrality and impartiality of the civil services in India.
It is essential to strike a balance between leveraging the expertise of bureaucrats and maintaining the independence of democratic institutions, while ensuring that the principles of neutrality and fairness are upheld.
Final Thoughts
As the country gears up for the 2024 general elections, the role of the Election Commission in ensuring free and fair elections becomes all the more crucial. The challenges faced by the Commission, such as the influence of money power, criminalization of politics, and technological concerns, require a concerted effort from all stakeholders to address.
The appointment of former bureaucrats to the Election Commission highlights the important role played by civil servants in Indian politics. While their administrative experience can be valuable, it is essential to maintain the independence and neutrality of democratic institutions.
