New Appointment Process for India’s Election Commissioners + SSC_CGL?.ToString()?? SSC_CGL?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 has introduced significant changes to the process of appointing India’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs). This act seeks to improve transparency and accountability in the Election Commission of India by introducing a three-member Selection Committee for the appointment process.
Key Takeaways:
Establishment of the Selection Committee:
The new act establishes a three-member Selection Committee to appoint the CEC and ECs.
The Committee includes:
The Prime Minister
A Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister
The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha
This structure is aimed at ensuring a bipartisan and balanced selection process.
Role of the Search Committee:
A Search Committee chaired by the Union Minister for Law and Justice assists the Selection Committee.
It includes two Secretary-level government officials.
The Search Committee shortlists candidates for the Selection Committee to choose from.
Inclusion of External Candidates:
The Act allows the consideration of candidates from outside the existing Election Commissioners’ pool, broadening the selection scope.
This provision is expected to bring individuals with diverse experiences and perspectives to the leadership of the Election Commission.
Supreme Court’s Influence:
The changes were influenced by a Supreme Court ruling emphasizing the need for transparency and checks and balances in appointments.
The inclusion of the Leader of the Opposition addresses concerns over exclusive executive control.
Criticism and Concerns:
Former Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat expressed concerns that allowing the government to nominate candidates could lead to partisan appointments, potentially affecting the Commission's independence.
The exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the Selection Committee has drawn criticism for reducing judicial oversight in the process.
Implications for Electoral Governance:
The Act's implementation will be closely watched for its impact on the Election Commission’s independence.
The upcoming appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner after Rajiv Kumar’s tenure ends on February 18, 2025, will be a key test for this new system.
Observers will assess whether these changes strengthen the Commission’s role in ensuring free and fair elections or introduce new challenges to its autonomy.
Significance:
This new law marks a pivotal change in the governance of India’s electoral system. While it aims to ensure a balanced and transparent selection process, its actual implementation will determine whether it strengthens the Election Commission’s credibility or raises further concerns about its independence.
Appointment & Tenure Of Commissioners:
The President appoints Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. They have tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They enjoy the same status and receive salary and perks as available to Judges of the Supreme Court of India.