Indian Democracy and Election Commission

Elections play a crucial role in a democratic system of government. The most important element in elections is the voters. In this regard, the famous political thinker Pollack opines that "If public elections are not conducted strictly and efficiently, not only the public system becomes ineffective but the democratic system of that country is in danger." From this statement, it is seen that elections have an important role in democracy. Since representative government comes into existence only through elections, there is a relationship between elections and voters when electing public representatives. The vote given by the people through elections gives legitimacy to the government. Moreover, a peaceful and constitutional transfer of power can be achieved. Accordingly, the Constitution makers have entrusted the responsibility of conducting all types of elections in India, from Gram Panchayat elections to Lok Sabha elections and from Sarpanch elections to Presidential elections, to the Election Commission. For that, the Election Commission has been given very extensive powers by giving it autonomous status. Therefore, how and to what extent all types and levels of elections in India are held in an impartial environment, in a fear-free environment, and how efficiently they are held? The success or failure of democracy in India depends on this. Therefore, the role of the Election Commission is considered particularly important in the democratic governance system of India.