President Appoints Gyanesh Kumar as the New Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)

President Appoints Gyanesh Kumar as the New Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)

This marks the first CEC appointment under the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioner Act, 2023 (refer to the infographic). The 2023 Act replaces the 1991 Act, granting the Election Commission of India (ECI) greater autonomy.

About the Election Commission of India (ECI)

• A constitutional body established under Articles 324-329 (Part XV).
• National Voters' Day is celebrated on January 25 since 2011 to honor the ECI’s founding.
• Since 1993, the ECI has consisted of one CEC and two Election Commissioners (ECs).
• It ensures free and fair elections for:
  • Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha
  • State Legislative Assemblies
  • President & Vice President

The 2023 Act and ECI Autonomy
Under the 2023 Act, the ECI has been granted enhanced autonomy, including:

• The CEC and ECs are entitled to Supreme Court judge-level salaries and benefits.
• Immunity from civil/criminal proceedings related to their official duties.
• Establishment of search and selection committees for appointments.
• A fixed tenure for the CEC and ECs.

Challenges Faced by ECI

• Questionable Autonomy:
• Selection Process: The search and selection committee has a majority of government representatives, raising concerns about the independence of appointments.
• Removal of ECs: Unlike the CEC, the ECs can be removed based on the CEC’s recommendation.
• Limited Powers: The ECI cannot de-register political parties, even in cases of serious violations.
• Lack of Independent Staff: The ECI relies on government employees rather than having its own dedicated workforce, which impacts its autonomy.

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