Q. Which of the following are the functions of the Election Commissioner of India?
1. Conduct of elections for the posts of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
2. Conduct of elections of the Municipal Corporations and Municipalities.
3. Deciding on all doubts and disputes arising out of the above elections.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
a) 2 and 3
b) 1 and 2
c) 1 and 3
d) None of the above
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2024
Correct Answer: d) None of the above
Explanation:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body responsible for conducting free and fair elections in India. However, its functions are limited to certain specific elections as per the Constitution and laws.
1. Conduct of elections for the posts of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha:
The Election Commission of India does not conduct elections for these posts. These elections are conducted internally by the members of the respective houses (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha). Hence, this statement is incorrect.
2. Conduct of elections of the Municipal Corporations and Municipalities:
The Election Commission of India is not responsible for conducting elections to Municipal Corporations and Municipalities. These elections are conducted by the State Election Commissions, which are separate bodies established under Article 243K of the Constitution. Hence, this statement is also incorrect.
3. Deciding on all doubts and disputes arising out of the above elections:
The Election Commission of India does not have the authority to decide disputes related to elections for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Deputy Chairman, or Municipal Corporations and Municipalities. Disputes related to parliamentary or state assembly elections are handled by the judiciary (e.g., High Courts). Hence, this statement is also incorrect.
