Supreme Court to hear plea to bring CJI back in selection committee

La Excellence IAS Academy

March 14, 2024

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La Excellence IAS Academy | March 14, 2024 | Indian Polity

Syllabus: GS-II Subject: Polity Topic: Institutions.

Context: Supreme Court to hear plea alleging Centre may exploit vacancies in Election Commission for unfair advantage.

Arguments:

Implementation of previous Supreme Court judgment for Chief Justice ‘s inclusion in the EC selection committee.
Emphasis on the Election Commission’s critical role in ensuring free and fair elections.
Request for insulation of Election Commission from political interference.
Urgency due to risk to electoral integrity and functioning with vacancies.

The Election Commission of India (Article 324):

The Election Commission of India is a permanent and independent body.

It is tasked with conducting elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the Office of the President and Vice President of India.

Appointment and tenure of Commissioners:

· No specific legislative process is outlined in the Constitution.

· President appoints based on advice of Union Council of Ministers.

· Term lasts six years or until 65, with status and benefits akin to SC judges.

· The removal process mirrors that of Supreme Court judges.

· Retiring commissioners aren’t barred from further government appointments.

Composition:

· Initially a single-member body, it expanded in 1989 due to an increased workload.

· Majority vote resolves disagreements among commissioner.Top of Form