UPSC | Prelims GS | 2026

The newspaper report on proposed changes to the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and State Election Commissioner reflects which constitutional principle?

  1. Institutional independence and impartiality of election authorities
  2. Exclusive appointment of all election officials by the Chief Justice of India
  3. A constitutional requirement that State Election Commissioners be appointed by Parliament
  4. Abolition of the State Election Commission after municipal elections

Answer

Correct Answer

Institutional independence and impartiality of election authorities

Explanation

Option A is correct because the report framed the appointment debate around independence and impartiality. Option B is wrong: the proposal described a joint selection process, not unilateral judicial appointment. Option C is wrong because Parliament was not identified as the appointing authority for State Election Commissioners. Option D is unrelated and contradicts the continuing role of State Election Commissions.

Topics: cec and state election commissioner appointments, constitutional bodies, elections, polity