The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutionally mandated body responsible for administering elections in India. Established on January 25, 1950, the ECI ensures that elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. Its authority is derived from Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, which grants the ECI the power of superintendence, direction, and control over the electoral process.
Composition of the Election Commission
Initially, the ECI was a single-member body. However, to enhance its functioning and manage the increasing complexity of elections, it was transformed into a multi-member body. As of now, the Commission comprises the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners (ECs). Decisions within the Commission are made by majority vote, ensuring a balanced and democratic approach. The ECI is headquartered at Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, New Delhi.
Appointment and Tenure
The President of India appoints the CEC and the ECs based on the recommendations of a selection committee. This committee is headed by the Prime Minister and includes the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. The tenure of the CEC and ECs is six years or until they reach the age of 65, whichever comes first. The CEC can only be removed from office through a process of impeachment by Parliament, ensuring the independence and integrity of the position.
Functions and Powers of the Election Commission
The ECI plays a pivotal role in the democratic framework of India. Its primary functions and powers include:
- Conduct of Elections: The ECI supervises, directs, and controls the entire process of elections to Parliament and State Legislatures, as well as the elections for the offices of the President and Vice President.
- Preparation of Electoral Rolls: It is responsible for preparing and periodically updating the electoral rolls to ensure that all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote.
- Recognition of Political Parties and Allotment of Symbols: The ECI registers political parties, grants them recognition as national or state parties based on their performance, and allocates election symbols to them.
- Implementation of the Model Code of Conduct: To maintain the sanctity of the electoral process, the ECI enforces a Model Code of Conduct that political parties and candidates must adhere to during elections.
- Monitoring Election Expenditure: The Commission sets limits on campaign expenditure and monitors the financial activities of candidates and parties to prevent undue influence on voters.
- Addressing Electoral Malpractices: The ECI has the authority to take appropriate actions to curb electoral malpractices and ensure free and fair elections.
Delhi Legislative Assembly Election 2025
The 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly election marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the National Capital Territory (NCT). Held on February 5, 2025, the election witnessed a keen contest among major political parties, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerging victorious after 27 years.
Key Political Parties and Candidates
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the national level, the BJP contested 68 out of the 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly. The party’s campaign focused on promises of financial support for women, the elderly, and the youth, aiming to broaden its appeal among various demographics.
- Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): Founded in 2012 from an anti-corruption movement, AAP, under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, contested all 70 seats. Despite its previous tenure, the party faced challenges due to graft allegations against its leadership.
- Indian National Congress (INC): Once a dominant force in Delhi politics, the INC, led by Devender Yadav in the region, also contested all 70 seats. However, the party struggled to regain its foothold in the capital.
Election Outcome
The BJP secured a majority by winning 40 out of the 70 seats, marking its return to power in Delhi after nearly three decades. The AAP managed to win 17 seats, while the INC failed to secure any seats in the assembly.
Notable Results
- New Delhi Constituency: In a significant upset, BJP’s Parvesh Verma defeated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi assembly seat.
- Jangpura Constituency: AAP’s Manish Sisodia conceded defeat in the Jangpura constituency, acknowledging the mandate of the people.
Election Rules and Conduct
The 2025 Delhi Assembly election was conducted under the stringent guidelines set forth by the ECI to ensure a free and fair electoral process. Key aspects included:
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC): The MCC was enforced from the date of the election announcement, regulating the behavior of political parties and candidates. It prohibited activities such as vote-buying, hate speech, and misuse of official machinery.
- Election Expenditure Monitoring: The ECI set expenditure limits for candidates and deployed observers to monitor spending, ensuring transparency and preventing undue influence.
- Voter Education and Facilitation: Initiatives were undertaken to educate voters about their rights and the importance of voting, including setting up