The Election Commission of India is a permanent constitutional body established in accordance with the Constitution on January 25, 1950. It is responsible for conducting and regulating elections in India. The main functions of the Election Commission of India are:
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Superintendence, direction, and control of the entire process for conduct of elections: The Election Commission has the power to conduct and regulate elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, State Legislative Councils, and the offices of the President and Vice President of the country.
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Ensuring free and fair elections: The Election Commission is responsible for ensuring that elections are conducted in a free and fair manner. It issues a Model Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates to conduct elections in a free and fair manner. It also sets limits on poll expenses and has the right to allow symbols to political parties. The commission prepares guidelines for the government to prevent misuse of power to win elections.
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Resolving disputes: The Election Commission has the responsibility to resolve disputes that may arise during the election process.
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Advisory and quasi-judicial functions: The Commission’s functions and powers with respect to elections to the offices of the President, the Vice President, the state legislators, and the Parliament are divided under three headings: administrative, advisory, and quasi-judicial.
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Removing disqualification from the voter list: The Election Commission also has the power to remove disqualification from the voter list.
The Election Commission operates under the authority of the Constitution per Article 324 and subsequently enacted Representation of the People Act. At the state level, the Election Commission is assisted by the Chief Electoral Officer of the State, who is an IAS officer of Principal Secretary rank. At the district and constituency levels, the District Magistrates (in their capacity as District Election Officers), Electoral Registration Officers, and Returning Officers perform election work.
