Electoral integrity forms the bedrock of India’s democratic framework, ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected through free, fair, and transparent elections. In a country as diverse and populous as India, safeguarding electoral integrity is not merely a procedural necessity but a constitutional imperative to maintain political stability and public trust in governance. Elections determine the legitimacy of governments, and any compromise in their fairness can erode the very foundations of democracy, leading to political unrest, weakened institutions, and a decline in citizen confidence.The Election Commission of India is the guardian of this democratic mandate.
Under the Article 324 of the Constitution, the ECI is entrusted with the superintendence and control of the entire electoral method for Parliament, state legislatures, and also the offices of the President and Vice-President. By upholding the principles of universal adult suffrage, enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, and introducing reforms to enhance transparency, the ECI plays an indispensable role in preserving the credibility and resilience of India’s democratic system.
Constitutional and Legal Framework of the ECI
The Constitutional and Legal process of the Election Commission of India (ECI) is anchored in Articles 324 to 329 of the Constitution, granting it to supervise, direct, and control elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and key constitutional offices. This mandate is reinforced by statutes such as the Representation of the People Acts of 1950 and 1951, which outline the conduct of elections, voter eligibility, and the regulation of political parties. Together, these provisions ensure that the ECI operates as an independent constitutional body with the legal powers necessary to uphold electoral integrity across India.
Articles 324–329 of the Indian Constitution
Articles 324 to 329 provide the constitutional foundation for the Election Commission of India (ECI). Article 324 vests the Commission with the authority to supervise, direct, and control elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and also the offices of the President and Vice-President. Articles 325 and 326 guarantee universal adult suffrage and bar discrimination in voter registration, while Articles 327 to 329 empower Parliament to legislate on election matters and restrict judicial interference in certain stages of the electoral process. These provisions ensure that the ECI’s role is both constitutionally defined and safeguarded from external influence.
Representation of the People Acts (1950 & 1951)
The Representation of the People Act, 1950, outlines the legal framework for preparing and revising electoral rolls, determining constituency boundaries, and setting qualifications for voters. The Representation of the People Act, 1951, focuses on the actual conduct of elections, detailing nomination procedures, the regulation of political parties, election offences, and grounds for disqualification. Together, these laws provide a statutory basis for implementing the constitutional mandate of free and fair elections.
Powers under the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of principles issued by the ECI to political parties, candidates, and governments to ensure a level playing field during elections. While it does not have statutory force, the MCC carries significant moral and political weight. The ECI enforces compliance through warnings, censures, and in some cases, restrictions on campaign activities. The MCC covers campaign speeches, use of government resources, advertisements, and public meetings to prevent misuse of power during the election period.
Legal Autonomy vs. Functional Autonomy Debate
The ECI is designed to operate independently from the executive branch, with constitutional protections intended to shield it from political pressures. Legal autonomy is secured through fixed tenure for commissioners, removal procedures similar to those for judges of the Supreme Court, and budgetary independence. However, functional autonomy remains a subject of debate, as the appointment process, dependence on government machinery for election duties, and constraints in enforcing specific penalties can affect operational independence. Strengthening both legal and functional autonomy is often discussed as a means to enhance the Commission’s ability to uphold electoral integrity without compromise.
Core Functions of the ECI in Protecting Electoral Integrity
The Election Commission of India’s core functions include conducting free and fair elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and constitutional offices, maintaining accurate and updated electoral rolls, regulating the recognition and functioning of political parties, monitoring campaign finance and expenditure, and enforcing the Model Code of Conduct. It also addresses electoral malpractices, deploys security and monitoring teams to prevent voter intimidation or fraud, and introduces technological measures such as Electronic Voting Machines and VVPAT systems to enhance transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.
Conducting Free and Fair Elections at Central, State, and Local Levels
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is overseeing elections to the Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, and the offices of the President and Vice-President. While State Election Commissions essentially manage local body elections, the ECI coordinates and guides processes to ensure uniformity in standards. Its role includes announcing election schedules, deploying polling personnel, arranging security, and ensuring that all phases of the electoral process follow legal requirements and maintain neutrality.
Maintaining and Updating Electoral Rolls
Accurate electoral rolls are fundamental to electoral integrity. The ECI conducts periodic revisions to include eligible citizens, remove deceased voters, and update details for those who have relocated. Special drives target newly eligible voters, such as those who have recently turned 18, while technology-driven solutions like online registration aim to make the process more accessible and transparent.
Regulating Political Parties and Election Symbols
The ECI manages the registration of political parties under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. It allocates election symbols, ensuring they are distinct and easily recognizable by voters, particularly in areas with low literacy levels. The Commission also monitors party constitutions and compliance with statutory obligations, such as filing annual financial statements and internal election reports.
Overseeing Campaign Financing and Expenditure
The ECI enforces legal limits on candidate expenditure to promote a level playing field. It deploys expenditure monitoring teams, flying squads, and static surveillance units to track spending during campaigns. The Commission requires candidates and parties to maintain detailed accounts and submit them for scrutiny, with penalties for false declarations or non-compliance.
Enforcing the MCC and Penal Actions for Violations
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) serves to prevent misuse of power during elections. The Commission also ensures that government activities during this period do not influence voter decisions, maintaining fairness throughout the electoral process.
Technological Interventions in Electoral Integrity
The Election Commission of India uses technology to enhance transparency, accuracy, and voter confidence in the electoral process. Key measures include the adoption of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to replace paper ballots, the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) method for verification, and the use of online platforms for voter registration and roll updates. The Commission also employs data analytics, mobile applications, and surveillance tools to monitor campaigns, track expenditure, and prevent electoral malpractices. These innovations aim to make elections more secure, efficient, and accessible while safeguarding electoral integrity.
Evolution from Ballot Papers to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
The transition from paper ballots to Electronic Voting Machines marked a significant change in the Indian electoral process. EVMs were introduced to reduce errors, speed up counting, and prevent issues such as invalid votes and ballot box tampering. Since their nationwide adoption in 2004, they have streamlined the voting process and enhanced efficiency, while also facing periodic scrutiny and calls for greater transparency.
Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) for Transparency
To address concerns over the credibility of EVMs, the Election Commission of India introduced the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail system. VVPATs provide voters with a printed slip displaying their chosen candidate, visible for a few seconds before being securely stored. This system allows for cross-verification during audits or disputes, reinforcing public trust in election results.
Use of AI and Blockchain in Voter Authentication and Result Verification
Emerging technological tools like artificial intelligence and blockchain are being explored to strengthen voter authentication, monitor campaign activities, and safeguard the accuracy of results. AI can help detect patterns of electoral malpractice, identify duplicate or ineligible voter registrations, and flag misinformation campaigns. Blockchain technology offers the potential for tamper-resistant storage of voting data, enabling secure verification and reducing the possibility of manipulation.
Cybersecurity Protocols for ECI Data and IT Infrastructure
Cybersecurity has become a significant aspect of electoral integrity. The ECI implements multiple layers of security, including encryption, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and access controls to protect voter databases, election software, and internal communication channels.
ECI’s Role in Preventing Electoral Malpractices
The Election Commission of India aims to prevent electoral malpractices through strict monitoring, swift enforcement, and preventive measures. Its efforts include deploying security forces to deter voter intimidation, implementing measures to stop booth capturing and fake voting, and using surveillance teams to track illegal campaign activities. The ECI monitors candidate expenditure, investigates violations of the Model Code of Conduct, and takes action against the spread of misinformation or deepfake content during elections. These measures aim to maintain fairness, protect voter rights, and uphold the credibility of the electoral process.
Countering Voter Intimidation, Booth Capturing, and Violence
The Election Commission of India deploys security forces, including central paramilitary units, to sensitive polling stations to deter intimidation and prevent booth capturing. It identifies vulnerable areas through pre-poll assessments, strengthens security arrangements, and ensures that law enforcement remains neutral during the voting process. Quick Response Teams are stationed to address any incidents of violence, helping maintain order and voter confidence.
Measures Against Fake Voting and Identity Fraud
To combat impersonation and fake voting, the ECI mandates voter identification through government-approved photo ID cards, with the Voter ID (EPIC) being the primary document. Electoral rolls are regularly updated to remove duplicate or invalid entries. In sensitive areas, polling officers cross-verify voter details with supplementary lists and employ indelible ink marking to prevent multiple voting.
Action Against Misinformation and Deepfake Content During Elections
The ECI monitors traditional and digital media to identify and act against the spread of false or manipulated content that could influence voter perception. It works with social media platforms to remove or label misleading material, especially deepfakes, and issues advisories to political parties and candidates on ethical campaigning. Fact-checking mechanisms and public awareness campaigns help voters identify credible information sources.
Electoral Expenditure Monitoring Units and Flying Squads
The Commission deploys dedicated expenditure monitoring teams, including flying squads and static surveillance units, to detect and prevent the distribution of cash, liquor, or other inducements to voters. Candidates must maintain detailed accounts of campaign expenses and submit them for scrutiny. Any breach of expenditure limits or non-disclosure of costs can lead to disqualification or legal action under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Voter Education and Awareness Initiatives
The Election Commission of India promotes voter education and awareness through programs that encourage informed and ethical participation in elections. Its flagship initiative, the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme, conducts outreach campaigns in schools, colleges, workplaces, and communities to increase registration and turnout. These efforts focus on engaging youth, women, marginalized groups, and urban voters, while also promoting digital literacy to help citizens identify credible information and resist misinformation during the electoral process.
Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Programme
The SVEEP programme is the Election Commission of India’s flagship initiative to enhance voter awareness, registration, and turnout. It uses targeted communication strategies, including community engagement, cultural events, and mass media campaigns, to reach diverse sections of the population. The programme addresses barriers to participation, educates voters about their rights and responsibilities, and promotes ethical voting practices.
Digital Literacy Drives to Combat Misinformation
The ECI conducts digital literacy campaigns to help citizens critically evaluate election-related content, particularly on social media. These initiatives teach voters how to identify credible sources, verify information, and avoid spreading misinformation. Collaborations with fact-checking organisations, media outlets, and online platforms help strengthen the accuracy of political communication.
Inclusion of Marginalized Communities
Special outreach programmes aim to include communities that historically face barriers to participation, such as tribal populations, rural poor, and differently-abled voters. The ECI uses local languages, culturally relevant messages, and mobile registration units to improve accessibility. Measures like wheelchair access at polling stations, Braille-enabled ballots, and priority voting for persons with disabilities are implemented to ensure inclusivity.
Encouraging Urban Voter Turnout and Youth Participation
Urban areas often experience lower voter turnout compared to rural regions. The ECI designs awareness campaigns that appeal to urban voters, addressing voter apathy and highlighting the impact of individual votes. For young voters, especially those turning 18, the Commission conducts campus enrolment drives, social media campaigns, and interactive events to encourage early and consistent participation in elections.
Challenges to ECI’s Effectiveness
The Election Commission of India faces challenges that affect its ability to ensure complete electoral integrity. These include allegations of political bias, limited enforcement powers for certain violations, delays in resolving election-related disputes, and dependence on government machinery for administrative support. Managing misinformation in the digital space, addressing resource constraints during large-scale elections, and maintaining public trust in its neutrality further complicate its functioning. Strengthening both its legal authority and operational independence remains essential to improving its effectiveness.
Allegations of Bias and Political Pressure
The Election Commission of India has faced criticism over perceived partiality in its decisions, particularly during high-stakes elections. Allegations of selective enforcement of the MCC and delayed action against ruling party candidates can erode public trust. Such perceptions, whether substantiated or not, can affect the Commission’s credibility and the overall confidence in the electoral process.
Inadequate Enforcement Powers for Certain Violations
While the ECI has broad supervisory authority, its power to penalize is limited in some areas. For example, violations of the Model Code of Conduct often lead only to advisories or temporary campaign bans, rather than legal consequences. Stronger statutory backing is needed to ensure swift and deterrent action against electoral misconduct.
Judicial Delays in Election-Related Disputes
Election petitions and disputes frequently remain unresolved for years in the judicial system. This delay undermines the principle of timely justice and can allow individuals accused of malpractice to continue holding office. Streamlined legal procedures and dedicated election tribunals could address this challenge more effectively.
Handling Misinformation in the Digital Age
The rapid spread of misinformation, deepfakes, and manipulated content on social media channels poses a significant challenge. While the ECI monitors digital spaces and coordinates with online platforms, the sheer scale and speed of dissemination make enforcement difficult. Combating this issue requires continuous technological upgrades, stronger collaboration with fact-checking bodies, and clear regulatory frameworks for digital campaigning.
Resource and Manpower Limitations in Large-Scale Elections
India’s elections involve hundreds of millions of voters and over a million polling stations. Managing such an extensive operation requires significant human resources, logistical planning, and technological infrastructure. The ECI often depends on personnel drawn from state and central government departments, which can lead to coordination issues and inconsistencies in enforcement. Increasing permanent staffing and enhancing training for election personnel can improve efficiency and reliability.
Landmark Interventions by the ECI
The Election Commission of India has undertaken several landmark interventions that strengthened electoral integrity and public confidence in the voting process. These include the nationwide adoption of Electronic Voting Machines, the introduction of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail systems, strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct in high-profile cases, and the disqualification of candidates for corrupt practices or failure to disclose assets. The Commission has also implemented measures for transparent political funding and improved voter accessibility, setting important precedents for future elections.
Historic Elections Where ECI’s Action Restored Public Faith
The Election Commission of India has taken decisive measures in several elections to reinforce public trust. Examples include deploying unprecedented security arrangements in states with a history of electoral violence, ordering re-polls in cases of confirmed malpractice, and introducing real-time monitoring to ensure transparency. These actions demonstrated that the ECI could intervene effectively to protect the credibility of the vote.
Key Supreme Court Judgments Affirming ECI’s Role
The Supreme Court has issued several rulings that have strengthened the ECI’s authority and independence. Judgments have upheld the Commission’s power to enforce the Model Code of Conduct, reject nomination papers in cases of incomplete or false disclosures, and take preventive steps against unfair campaigning. Such legal affirmations have reinforced the ECI’s constitutional mandate to ensure free and fair elections.
High-Profile Disqualifications and MCC Enforcements
The ECI has disqualified candidates for corrupt practices, non-disclosure of assets, and exceeding expenditure limits. It has also taken strict action against political leaders for inflammatory speeches, misuse of government resources, and violations of campaign norms under the Model Code of Conduct. These decisions, though often politically sensitive, have been essential in setting enforceable standards for electoral conduct.
Implementation of Transparent Funding Reforms
To improve transparency in political financing, the ECI has advocated for and implemented measures such as mandatory disclosure of contributions above a certain threshold, public access to financial statements of parties, and the introduction of electoral bonds under government policy. While some of these reforms remain debated, they represent steps toward reducing undisclosed cash flows and enhancing accountability in campaign funding.
Comparative Insights
The Election Commission of India can be assessed alongside election management bodies in other democracies to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Compared to agencies such as the United States Federal Election Commission and the United Kingdom Electoral Commission, the ECI benefits from a clear constitutional mandate and centralized authority over national and state elections. However, differences exist in areas like campaign finance transparency, regulation of digital campaigning, and timelines for resolving electoral disputes. Studying global best practices can help India refine its electoral processes while preserving its unique constitutional framework.
How India’s ECI Compares With Other Democracies
India’s Election Commission exercises centralized control over national and state elections, including scheduling, conduct, and enforcement. This unified design contrasts with the United States, where the Federal Election Commission regulates campaign finance while states and local authorities administer elections. The UK Electoral Commission regulates party finance and sets standards, but local councils run the polls. India’s model offers uniformity and speed in decision-making, while the US and UK rely on distributed administration that can encourage local responsiveness but create uneven practices across jurisdictions. Claims about comparative effectiveness, turnout effects, or complaint resolution rates should reference official reports or peer‑reviewed studies for accuracy, such as ECI handbooks, FEC enforcement data, and UK Electoral Commission performance audits, as well as independent academic evaluations [citations required].
India also differs in technology use. EVMs and VVPATs are standard nationwide, whereas many US jurisdictions still use paper ballots with optical scanners, and the UK uses paper ballots with manual counting. Assertions about error rates, audit depth, or security outcomes require technical studies or official audits that compare systems across countries [citations needed].
Campaign finance oversight shows further contrasts. The US framework includes detailed disclosure, contribution limits in federal races, and independent expenditure rules. The UK mandates strict donation transparency, spending caps, and centralized reporting. India requires candidate expenditure limits and party disclosures, but debates continue about the opacity of some funding channels and the timeliness of public reporting. Any comparative claim about transparency or compliance outcomes needs authoritative sources, including statute texts, enforcement statistics, and watchdog analyses [citations required].
Lessons India Can Adopt From Global Best Practices
India can draw practical ideas from other election bodies while preserving its constitutional structure. First, create faster adjudication of disputes through specialized election benches or time‑bound tribunals, similar to jurisdictions that set statutory timelines for petitions. Second, strengthen real-time disclosure for campaign finance by mandating machine-readable filings, standardized data schemas, and near real-time publication, a practice used in several advanced disclosure systems. Third, publish regular independent audit reports on technology, including open testing protocols, public summaries of penetration tests, and risk‑limiting audits where applicable. Fourth, formalize platform accountability for digital campaigning through binding guidelines on ad libraries, sponsor verification, and rapid takedown pathways for synthetic media that impersonates candidates, with precise appeal mechanisms.
Reform Proposals for Strengthening ECI
Reform proposals for strengthening the Election Commission of India focus on enhancing its independence, enforcement capacity, and adaptability to modern challenges. Key measures include establishing a transparent, bipartisan process for appointing Election Commissioners, granting the ECI greater statutory powers to impose penalties for violations, and creating time-bound mechanisms for resolving election disputes. Expanding regulatory authority over digital campaigning, improving real-time transparency in political funding, and increasing permanent staffing and technological resources can further enhance its ability to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
Legal Reforms for Greater Independence in Appointments and Funding
Strengthening the independence of the Election Commission of India requires a transparent and bipartisan process for appointing Election Commissioners. Proposals include establishing a selection committee comprising representatives from the government, opposition, and judiciary to reduce political influence. Budgetary independence, with direct parliamentary approval of funds rather than reliance on executive allocations, would further safeguard autonomy.
More substantial Penalties for MCC and Campaign Finance Violations
The Model Code of Conduct currently relies on moral authority and limited sanctions, which can reduce its deterrent effect. Granting the ECI statutory authority to impose more substantial penalties, such as higher fines, disqualification of repeat offenders, and temporary bans from contesting elections, would improve compliance. Similarly, stricter enforcement of campaign finance rules, including real-time audits and public reporting, would curb unaccounted expenditure.
Expansion of ECI’s Jurisdiction Over Digital Campaigning and Social Media Ads
Digital campaigning and political advertising on social media have introduced new avenues for influencing voters. Expanding the ECI’s regulatory jurisdiction to include online platforms would allow it to set standards for ad disclosures, mandate verification of political advertisers, and require platforms to maintain public ad libraries. Clear rules to address deepfakes, targeted misinformation, and foreign-funded digital campaigns would enhance electoral transparency.
Real-Time Public Access to Election Expenditure and Funding Data
Greater transparency in political financing can be achieved by creating an open-access, real-time database of party and candidate expenditures, updated throughout the campaign period. This database should include itemized spending records, sources of funding, and donor details above a set threshold. Providing the public, media, and watchdog organisations with timely information would improve accountability and discourage illicit financing.
The Road Ahead for Electoral Integrity in India
The future of electoral integrity in India depends on strengthening the Election Commission’s independence, enhancing its enforcement powers, and adapting to technological and political challenges. Priorities include modernizing election infrastructure, expanding oversight of digital campaigning, improving transparency in political funding, and ensuring swift resolution of electoral disputes. Collaboration with civil society, media, and technology platforms, combined with active citizen participation, will be essential to preserve public trust and uphold the credibility of the democratic process.
Role of Technology, Civil Society, and Media in Supporting ECI
Technology can strengthen electoral integrity through secure voting systems, transparent result verification, and real-time monitoring of campaign activities. Civil society organisations contribute by observing elections, conducting voter awareness campaigns, and advocating for reforms. Coordinated efforts between these stakeholders and the ECI can enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Balancing Rapid Elections with Quality and Transparency
The increasing speed of election cycles requires careful planning to maintain quality and fairness. While timely elections are necessary to uphold constitutional mandates, adequate time must be allowed for candidate vetting, voter list verification, and thorough enforcement of electoral laws. The ECI must balance logistical efficiency with comprehensive oversight to ensure accuracy, transparency, and fairness at every stage.
Long-Term Vision for a Corruption-Free Electoral Process
A corruption-free electoral process demands stronger campaign finance regulations, robust enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, and a zero-tolerance approach to electoral malpractices. The long-term vision should include transparent political funding, strict penalties for violations, enhanced voter education, and secure adoption of emerging technologies. Achieving this requires consistent reform, institutional independence, and active public participation to safeguard the integrity of Indian democracy.
Conclusion
The Election Commission of India remains central to preserving the democratic framework. Its constitutional mandate empowers it to uphold electoral integrity, enforce the law impartially, and adapt to evolving political and technological challenges.
Public trust is an essential factor in the success of any electoral process when citizens believe that their votes are counted accurately. Without bias, they are more likely to participate actively in the democratic process.
Protecting the independence of the ECI is critical to its effectiveness. Any erosion of its autonomy, whether through political interference, inadequate resources, or legal constraints, risks weakening the very foundation of India’s democracy. Safeguarding this independence, coupled with ongoing reforms to strengthen its powers and transparency, is essential for sustaining a credible, corruption-free, and participatory electoral system for generations to come.
Election Commission of India (ECI) in Ensuring Electoral Integrity: FAQs
What Laws Define The ECI’s Powers And Responsibilities?
The Representation of the People Acts of 1950 and 1951 set out provisions for voter registration, constituency boundaries, conduct of elections, political party regulation, and election offences.
How Does The ECI Conduct Free And Fair Elections?
The ECI oversees scheduling, deployment of personnel, security arrangements, vote counting, and enforcement of electoral laws to ensure impartial and transparent elections.
What Role Does The ECI Play In Maintaining Electoral Rolls?
The ECI regularly updates electoral rolls to include eligible voters, remove duplicates or deceased persons, and ensure accurate voter information.
How Are Political Parties And Symbols Regulated?
The ECI registers political parties, allocates election symbols, and monitors compliance with statutory obligations such as internal elections and financial disclosures.
What Is The Model Code Of Conduct?
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a method of guidelines issued by the ECI to ensure fair campaigning and prevent misuse of government resources during elections.
How Does The ECI Monitor Campaign Finance?
It enforces expenditure limits, requires detailed spending reports, deploys monitoring teams, and can take action for non-compliance or misreporting.
What Technological Measures Has The ECI Introduced?
Key innovations include Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems, online voter registration, and digital monitoring of campaigns.
How Does VVPAT Improve Electoral Transparency?
VVPAT provides voters with a printed confirmation of their choice, allowing verification and enabling audits in case of disputes.
How Does The ECI Prevent Voter Fraud And Malpractice?
It uses voter ID verification, indelible ink, security deployments, surveillance teams, and regular electoral roll maintenance to curb impersonation and fake voting.
What Steps Does The ECI Take Against Misinformation And Deepfakes?
The ECI monitors digital platforms, collaborates with social media companies, issues takedown requests, and runs awareness campaigns to counter false content.
What Is The SVEEP Programme?
The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation programme promotes voter awareness, registration, and turnout through targeted outreach.
How Does The ECI Promote Inclusion In Elections?
Special measures target marginalized groups such as tribals, rural poor, and persons with disabilities, ensuring accessible polling stations and tailored voter education.
What Challenges Affect The ECI’s Effectiveness?
Challenges include allegations of bias, limited enforcement powers, judicial delays, misinformation, and resource constraints during large-scale elections.
What Landmark Interventions Has The ECI Made?
Examples include nationwide EVM adoption, VVPAT introduction, strict MCC enforcement in high-profile cases, and measures for greater political funding transparency.
How Does The ECI Compare With Election Bodies In Other Countries?
India’s ECI has centralized control, unlike the US or UK systems, which are more decentralized. However, global best practices offer ideas for finance transparency and digital regulation.
What Reforms Are Proposed To Strengthen The ECI?
Proposals include independent appointment processes, more substantial penalties for violations, expanded oversight of digital campaigning, and real-time funding disclosures.
How Can Technology, Civil Society, And Media Support Electoral Integrity?
Technology can secure processes, civil society can monitor elections, and the media can inform voters and expose violations, all in collaboration with the ECI.
Why Is Protecting The ECI’s Independence Important?
Independence ensures impartial decision-making, shields the ECI from political pressure, and sustains public trust in the democratic process.
