Question map
Which one of the following statements with regard to the Election Commission is not correct ?
Explanation
Under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, the Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting elections to the offices of the President and Vice President, as well as Parliament and State Legislatures [1]. The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners [3]. Regarding removal, while the CEC can only be removed in a manner similar to a Supreme Court judge, the other Election Commissioners cannot be removed from office except on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner. This constitutional safeguard ensures the independence of the commission from executive interference [4]. Furthermore, Article 324(6) mandates that the President or the Governor of a State shall, when requested by the Election Commission, make available such staff as may be necessary for the discharge of its functions, making the Governor constitutionally bound to provide support staff.
Sources
- [1] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 80: Elections > ELECTION MACHINERy3, > p. 573
- [2] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 43: Election Commission > COMPOSITION > p. 419
- [3] Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed., McGraw Hill. > Chapter 43: Election Commission > COMPOSITION > p. 419
- [4] Introduction to the Constitution of India, D. D. Basu (26th ed.). > Chapter 31: ELECTIONS > INTRODUCTION TO THE CONSTITUTION OF INDIA [CHAPTER 31 > p. 450