- The independence of the Election Commission of India is vital for the conduct of free, fair, and impartial elections. It ensures that the electoral process is not influenced by external pressures, political interference, or partisan interests.
- Several measures are in place to safeguard the independence of the Election Commission:
- Security of Tenure: The Constitution provides for a fixed term of office for the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners, ensuring that they cannot be removed arbitrarily.
- Financial Autonomy: The Election Commission of India has financial autonomy, which means that its budget is not subject to approval by the government. It has its own fund allocated by Parliament, which enables it to function independently.
- Wide-ranging Powers: The Election Commission has extensive powers under the Constitution and election laws to superintend, direct, and control the conduct of elections. These powers empower the Election Commission to take necessary measures to ensure free and fair elections without interference from any external authority.
- Non-interference in Day-to-Day Affairs: The government and other authorities are expected to refrain from interfering in the day-to-day functioning of the Election Commission. The Commission operates autonomously, formulating its policies, guidelines, and decisions independently.
- Impartiality and Transparency: The Election Commission upholds principles of impartiality and transparency in its operations and decision-making processes. It ensures that electoral processes are conducted in a fair, transparent, and non-partisan manner, maintaining public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
Posted inIndian Polity
INDEPENDENCE
