Composition of the Election Commission

The highest-ranking official in the Election Commission, responsible for overall supervision of elections.

The body responsible for conducting elections in India. It consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.

The Election Commission originally had only one member. In 1989, it became a multi-member body with the addition of two more commissioners.

The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and the other Election Commissioners, on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Regional Election Commissioners are appointed by the President, in consultation with the Election Commission.

The Parliament passed an Act to define the terms of service for the Election Commission. This act likely took effect in 2025.

A unique identifier assigned to each voter to prevent impersonation during elections.

The Election Commission grants recognition to political parties, allowing them to participate in elections.

The Election Commission assigns symbols to registered political parties and individual candidates.

Certain symbols are reserved for specific political parties, usually based on their history and significance.

Political parties that do not have reserved symbols can choose available symbols on a first-come, first-served basis.

If a political party splits, the Election Commission investigates and might freeze the party's reserved symbol to prevent misuse.

When a party splits, the Election Commission asks the parties to choose new symbols.

The Election Commission determines the dates for elections.

While the constitution defines general election timelines, the Election Commission has the final say on specific dates.

The Election Commission provides justification for choosing or delaying elections based on various factors, ensuring free and fair elections.

The Election Commission has the power to refuse to hold elections in a particular period if it deems it necessary to ensure a fair and unbiased election.

The Election Commission is responsible for ensuring elections are free, fair, and unbiased.