Role of Election Commission in India issues and challenges

Abstract

The preamble to the Constitution of India declares India to be a democratic, republic, sovereign, socialist and secular. Democracy is regarded as a basic feature of the Constitution. One of the most important features of the democratic polity is election at regular intervals. Election constitutes signpost of the democracy. Elections provide an opportunity to the people to express their faith in the government from time to time and change it when the need arises. For any democracy it is necessary that the elections should be free and fair. Indian Constitution makers have provided for the Election Commission of India to conduct free and fair elections (Art.324). The candidates and the political parties try their best to swing the election results in their favour. That s why our founding fathers have made the provisions regarding the Election Commission of India. Election Commission of India is responsible for the free and fair elections. It is a Constitutional body which is insulated from outside influence whether it is political or executive. Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India. Provisions have been made under different laws to stop the commission of corrupt practices and electoral offences. Despite that there are many instances wherein the candidates commit corrupt practices and electoral offences. In the present research the issues and challenges have been discussed which are hurdle in the way of Election Commission in conduct of free and fair elections. The study would help Election Commission, policy makers and legal practitioners in understanding and analysing the emerging issues and implementation of the election laws. newline