NEW DELHI: A novel bill concerning the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) is poised for introduction in a special parliamentary session in New Delhi. Historically, the appointment of these key figures within the Election Commission of India has largely hinged on the preferences of the incumbent government. The Indian Constitution delineates the roles of the Election Commission, CEC, and ECs in broad terms, yet it remains silent on their qualifications and the specific method for their appointments.
However, a significant impetus for change emerged following a Supreme Court ruling on March 2, 2023. The apex court decreed that appointments to the central electoral body should be orchestrated by a committee composed of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India. This arrangement is to remain in effect until Parliament enacts legislation addressing the issue.
Consequently, the Indian government has convened a special parliamentary session, scheduled to commence on September 18. Among the array of legislative matters slated for deliberation during this session, the proposed bill pertaining to the appointment of the CEC and ECs will be a prominent focus.
Key Highlights of "The Chief Election Commissioner And Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions Of Service And Term Of Office) Bill, 2023":
Eligibility: The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners must have held a post equivalent to the rank of Secretary to the Government of India. They should possess integrity, as well as knowledge and experience in election management and conduct.
Identification of Eligible Candidates: A search committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary, will compile a panel of five individuals for consideration as Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.
Selection of CEC and ECs: The Selection Committee, comprising the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of the Opposition in the House of the People as a Member, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister as another Member, will recommend suitable candidates to the President of India for appointment as CEC and ECs.
Leader of Opposition: In cases where the Leader of the Opposition in the House of the People has not been formally recognized, the leader of the largest opposition party in the House of the People shall be deemed the Leader of the Opposition.
Additional Consideration: The Selection Committee may also contemplate individuals beyond those listed in the panel created by the Search Committee.
This bill marks a pivotal development in the quest for a more transparent and accountable process in appointing the custodians of India's electoral integrity.
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