7. Statutory Institutions / Commissions Flashcards
(126 cards)
What is the role of the Election Commission of India?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) administers and supervises the electoral processes within the country, ensuring the conduct of free and fair elections, which is a cornerstone of democratic governance.
What are the constitutional provisions related to the Election Commission of India?
The Election Commission is established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, which empowers it with the responsibility of superintendence, direction, and control of elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India.
What is the structure of the Election Commission of India?
The Election Commission was initially set up as a single-member body in 1950 and became a multi-member body in 1989, typically consisting of the Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners to facilitate democratic decision-making.
How are the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners appointed?
The Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India, and while the Constitution does not specify qualifications, they are usually senior civil servants with extensive experience in administration and governance.
What is the removal process for the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)?
The CEC can only be removed through impeachment by Parliament, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both Houses and can only be initiated on grounds of proved misbehavior or incapacity.
What are the functions of the Election Commission regarding electoral rolls?
The Election Commission is responsible for the preparation and update of electoral rolls, ensuring they are up to date and free of discrepancies, which is fundamental to conducting elections.
How does the Election Commission monitor election expenses?
The Election Commission imposes limits on the amount of money a candidate can spend during an election campaign to maintain transparency and fairness.
What is the purpose of the Model Code of Conduct enforced by the Election Commission?
The Model Code of Conduct is enforced to ensure that the ruling party does not have an undue advantage in elections and to maintain the decorum of the electoral process once elections are announced.
What role do Election Observers play in the electoral process?
Election Observers are appointed by the Election Commission to closely monitor the election process and ensure that it is impartial and free from any undue influence.
What is the significance of voter education campaigns conducted by the Election Commission?
Voter education campaigns are conducted to educate voters about the importance of voting and how to vote, ensuring greater participation in the democratic process.
What was the recommendation of the Indrajit Gupta Committee regarding state funding of elections?
The Indrajit Gupta Committee advocated for partial state funding of elections to reduce corruption and dependence on questionable private donations.
What is the Law Commission Report (1999) and its stance on state funding?
The Law Commission Report (1999) supported state funding as a measure to level the playing field and ensure fair competition in elections.
What are the arguments in favor of state funding in elections?
Arguments in favor of state funding include transparency and corruption reduction, equality in elections, better governance, curtailing criminal activities, and promoting political equality.
What are the criticisms against state funding of political campaigns?
Critics argue that state funding may be financially unfeasible, could lead to misuse by non-serious parties, divert resources from essential services, and may not eliminate undisclosed private funding.
What does Milan Vaishnav’s analysis reveal about criminalization in Indian politics?
Milan Vaishnav’s analysis reveals that voters often choose candidates with criminal backgrounds because they are perceived as effective providers of services and protection, especially in weak or corrupt state contexts.
What is Paul Brass’s theory regarding violence and criminality in politics?
Paul Brass’s theory suggests that violence and criminality in politics are perpetuated by ‘institutionalized riot systems,’ which are networks within political parties and the state that benefit from ongoing violence and criminal behavior.
What is the significance of the 44% statistic regarding sitting MPs facing criminal charges?
The 44% statistic indicates a significant increase in the number of sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) facing criminal charges, highlighting a growing trend of criminalization in politics.
Who are some high-profile politicians noted for their criminal charges in India?
High-profile politicians like Mohammad Shahabuddin and Mukhtar Ansari from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are noted for their criminal charges and political influence.
What are the implications of the criminalization of politics on public trust?
The criminalization of politics erodes public trust in democratic institutions and processes, making it difficult to implement policies that require public cooperation and support.
What role does the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) play in India’s financial operations?
The CAG serves as a guardian of public finance, ensuring accountability and transparency in government financial operations, which is vital for maintaining the financial integrity of India’s democratic framework.
What does Article 148 of the Indian Constitution establish?
Article 148 establishes the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), including its appointment and conditions of service.
What are the functions of the CAG regarding government accounts?
The CAG audits all receipts and expenditures of the Union and State governments, including those of bodies significantly financed by the government, ensuring compliance with laws and financial discipline.
What is the purpose of performance audits conducted by the CAG?
Performance audits evaluate the efficiency, economy, and effectiveness of government programs and organizations, ensuring that public resources are used effectively.
What is the role of the CAG in promoting transparency and accountability?
The CAG conducts audits of all expenditures by the Government of India, ensuring that funds are used for intended purposes and in accordance with the law, and tables public reports in Parliament and state legislatures to enhance transparency.