The Chief Election Commissioner

The Chief Election Commissioner is the head of the Election Commission of India. The constitution guarantees certain powers to the Chief Election
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Commissioner to conduct elections for central and state legislatures in a smooth and a fair manner. Usually, he/she is from Indian Civil Services. His/her tenure is 6 years or upto 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.

Earlier, the Election Commission of India had only one Election Commissioner. A three member commission has come into existence from 1993 with one Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners.

In Indian political system, the Election Commission has been playing an important role. After T.N. Seshan (1990 - 1996) assumed the office, the Election Commission earned a considerable popularity. He took much initiation for the eradication of corruption in the elections of India. There was a nationwide recognition to the powers of the Election Commissioners.

Recommendations of T.N. Seshan

* 14 days time limit for campaigning after the date of withdrawal of nominations.
* One candidate should not contest from more than two constituencies at a time.
* If any candidate is punished for two years, he/she is barred from contesting elections for the next six years.
* If the contesting candidate expires, the election shall be postponed but not to be abolished.
* After completion of campaign time, sale of liquor shall be banned for 48 hours.
Functions of the Election Commission

Article 324 to 329, part 15 of the constitution states the formation, powers and functions of the Election Commission. The constitution gives some powers to

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