India, the biggest democracy in the world, is home to more than 1.4 billion people. With a population as big as India, running a democracy is not a piece of cake, considering the immense number of voters there are. It’s not a surprise that a democracy needs active voters. But how does India carry out its elections when their voting population is so high? Well, the answer to this is that the Election Commission of India or ECI, work tirelessly to ensure that each and every citizen of India gets to practice their right to vote. The story of the ECI started on January 25, 1950, as India stood on the cusp of becoming the world’s largest democracy, the Election Commission of India (ECI) was established to oversee and ensure the integrity of its electoral processes. This date is now commemorated annually as National Voters’ Day, celebrating the ECI’s pivotal role in upholding democratic values.
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Formation and Constitutional Mandates
The ECI was constituted under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, granting it the authority to supervise, direct, and control elections to the Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President. Initially, the commission functioned as a single-member body. However, to enhance its capacity, it was expanded to a three-member structure in 1989, comprising the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners. This structure was briefly reverted in 1990 but was reinstated in 1993 and has remained since. Since then, ECI’s role in India’s elections has been instrumental time and time again. The commission has proved that it is capable of carrying out the election in India.
Organisational Structure and Functioning
Headquartered at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi, India, the ECI operates with a secretariat of almost 300 employees. The president of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and the additional Election Commissioners for six years or until they turn 65, which comes first. Their removal requires a process akin to the impeachment of a Supreme Court judge, ensuring their independence from executive interference.
At the state level, during the Vidhan Sabha elections or the state elections, the ECI is assisted by the Chief Electoral officers, who oversee the election process, which includes the preparation and the conduct within their respective states. When it comes to the sub-state or district, or constituency level, the local District Magistrate or collectors are responsible for overseeing the process and ensuring the smooth execution of the electoral process.
Key Milestones and Reforms
As Independent India is a relatively new country, the election process has undergone many reforms to strengthen India’s democratic framework and ensure more participation, conduct, and a smooth overall electoral process.
Electronic Voting Machines, or EVMs, were among the most revolutionary reforms in the Indian electoral process. They were introduced to combat electoral malpractice and enhance efficiency. After successful trials in 1982, they were progressively adopted throughout the country. These machines revolutionised the voting process and made it quite easy. Carrying these EVMs was also easy, making it possible for the ECI to set up voting booths in secluded areas.
In an EVM, you press a button to lodge your vote, but people start questioning whether the person they are voting for is the one getting their vote. As a result, ECI introduced the Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail system to increase transparency. VVAPT systems allow voters to verify their choice by printing a slip that you can see if it is right; only then will it be counted in the final tally.
Another reform that forever changed India’s elections was allowing people under 21 to vote. Before 1989, only people over 21 were eligible to vote. However, the ECI changed the age limit from 21 to 18, introducing 35.7 million new voters and broadening democratic participation. The ECI also introduced electoral photo identity cards, which made the verification process much easier and more reliable.
Challenges Faced
Despite its many achievements, the Election Commission of India (ECI) faces significant challenges. Ensuring inclusivity remains a priority, with initiatives like home voting options for voters over 85 and persons with disabilities. The rise of digital platforms has introduced new hurdles, such as combating misinformation and regulating the ethical use of AI in campaigns. In January 2025, the ECI issued advisories to political parties on the responsible use of AI-generated content.
Conducting the Biggest Elections in the World in Style
Even after the challenge, the ECI persists and can conduct annual elections in different parts of India. Through continuous reforms and unwavering dedication, the commission ensures that the voice of every eligible citizen is heard, reinforcing the foundation of the world’s largest democracy.
