Election Commission

Summary

This video lecture introduces the Election Commission of India, emphasizing its role as a constitutional body established in 1950 to ensure free and fair elections. It discusses the historical context leading to its formation, the principles guiding the electoral process, such as the one General electoral role and adult suffrage. The lecture outlines the evolution of the Election Commission from a single-member body to a multi-member body to handle the vast electoral demands of the world's largest democracy. Key constitutional articles governing these principles are highlighted, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the Commission's structure and functions.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body established in 1950 to ensure free and fair elections.
• 📜 Constitutional bodies derive their powers from the Constitution, unlike statutory bodies which are established by laws.
• 🔍 The Election Commission's role includes conducting elections for various legislative bodies in India.
• 🗳️ The historical need for the Election Commission arose from the necessity for impartial electoral processes post-independence.
• ⚖️ Article 324 to Article 329 of the Constitution outline the provisions related to elections in India.
• 👥 Initially, the Election Commission operated as a single-member body until the late 1980s, reflecting the growing electoral responsibilities.
• 📉 The voting age was reduced from 21 to 18 years, leading to an expansion of the Election Commission's membership.
• 📖 Article 325 ensures a single electoral role for each constituency, preventing discrimination based on religion, race, caste, or sex.
• 👤 Article 326 establishes adult suffrage, allowing all Indian citizens aged 18 and over to vote.
• 📅 Future discussions will cover the structure and composition of the Election Commission, building on this foundational understanding.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of today's video lecture?

The primary focus is on the pivotal role played by the Election Commission in India.

How are constitutional bodies different from statutory bodies in India?

Constitutional bodies derive their powers from the Indian Constitution, while statutory bodies derive their powers from laws or executive directions.

What are the key subheadings that will be explored regarding the Election Commission?

The key subheadings include the overview of the Election Commission, its structure and composition, the appointment of election commissioners, and its functions, which encompass administrative, judicial, quasi-judicial, and legislative functions.

When was the Election Commission established, and what was its main aim?

The Election Commission was established in 1950 with the aim of conducting elections fairly and impartially in India.

What does the Preamble to the Constitution declare about India?

The Preamble declares India to be a democratic republic, emphasizing that democracy is a basic feature of the Indian Constitution.

What significant change occurred in the composition of the Election Commission in 1989?

In 1989, two more election commissioners were appointed, expanding the Election Commission from a single-member body to a multi-member body.

What principle does Article 325 of the Constitution establish regarding electoral roles?

Article 325 establishes that there shall be one general electoral role for every territorial constituency and prevents the creation of special electoral roles based on religion, race, caste, or sex.

What does Article 326 state about voting eligibility in India?

Article 326 states that every citizen of India who is at least 18 years old and not disqualified by the Constitution or any law is eligible to vote.

How does the concept of adult suffrage relate to Indian democracy?

The concept of adult suffrage ensures that elections remain representative of 'we the people of India,' as mentioned in the Preamble, by allowing all eligible citizens to vote.

What topics will be covered in the next video lecture?

The next video lecture will cover the structure and composition of the Election Commission.