The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, recently passed in the Rajya Sabha, introduces crucial amendments that significantly impact the structure and functioning of the Election Commission of India. These changes have generated varied responses across the political spectrum.
Opposition parties have voiced significant concerns, arguing that the bill represents a regression from the principles enshrined in the Constitution. In contrast, the government defends the bill, asserting that it enhances the functioning and autonomy of the Election Commission.
The Rajya Sabha Chairman emphasized the supremacy of Parliament in the legislative process, advocating for its independence from judicial interpretations.
The amendments introduced in this bill mark a pivotal shift in the governance of India’s electoral process. While the government perceives these changes as a means to strengthen the Election Commission, the opposition views them as potentially undermining its independence. The modifications, particularly regarding the appointment and removal processes of the CEC and ECs, have ignited intense debate about the interplay of powers among the various branches of the Indian government.
Q1. What are the key changes in the Election Commission Bill 2023?
Answer: The Bill introduces amendments such as immunity for CECs and ECs, modifications in the appointment process, and changes in the removal procedure, impacting the Election Commission's independence.
Q2. How does the Bill affect the independence of the Election Commission?
Answer: Critics argue that replacing the CJI with a Cabinet Minister in the appointment process may undermine the Election Commission's independence, raising concerns about political influence.
Q3. What is the new removal procedure for the CEC?
Answer: The CEC can only be removed through a process similar to that of a Supreme Court judge, ensuring a level of protection against arbitrary dismissal.
Q4. What are the salary adjustments for CECs and ECs?
Answer: The salaries and perks for the CEC and ECs have been aligned with those of a Supreme Court judge, which reflects the critical nature of their responsibilities.
Q5. What is the significance of parliamentary sovereignty in this context?
Answer: The Rajya Sabha Chairman emphasized the importance of parliamentary sovereignty, affirming that Parliament holds supreme authority in the legislative process, independent of judicial interpretations.
Question 1: What does the Election Commission Bill 2023 aim to amend?
A) The structure of the Election Commission
B) The voting process in elections
C) The eligibility criteria for voters
D) The registration process for political parties
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Who is now part of the selection panel for appointing the CEC?
A) Chief Justice of India
B) Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister
C) President of India
D) Union Law Minister
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How can the CEC be removed according to the new Bill?
A) By a simple majority in Parliament
B) Through a Supreme Court-like process
C) At the discretion of the Prime Minister
D) Upon recommendation of the Union Law Minister
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the new salary alignment for CECs and ECs?
A) Aligned with civil servants
B) Aligned with members of Parliament
C) Aligned with Supreme Court judges
D) No change in salary
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What did the opposition claim about the Bill's impact on the Election Commission?
A) It enhances independence
B) It undermines independence
C) It has no effect
D) It improves efficiency
Correct Answer: B
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