Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
2. Suggest reforms that are needed to make the Election Commission of India (ECI) more robust and to uphold its independence. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Why the question:
A five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court is examining a bunch of petitions recommending reforms in the process of appointment of members of the Election Commission. Their hearings have come not a moment too soon. It is hoped that the Bench will also examine electoral reforms suggested to governments by successive Election Commissions over the last two decades or so.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the issues in the functioning of ECI and suggest measures to overcome the same.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the aims and objectives of ECI.
Body:
First, write about the challenges and issues in the functioning of the ECI – Appointment issues, security of tenure, post-retirement appointment, financial autonomy, conflict between constitutional and legal powers and upholding its credibility etc.
Next, write about the reforms that are needed in order to resolve the above-mentioned issues and challenges.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
