| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Role of CEC | Oversees free and fair elections as head of the Election Commission of India (ECI). |
| Constitutional Safeguards | Article 324(5): Removal of CEC is as difficult as that of a Supreme Court judge. |
| Removal Process | Requires proven misbehaviour or incapacity, motion passed in both Houses of Parliament with a two-thirds majority, and Presidential action. |
| 2023 Act | Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023 updates procedural framework. |
| Appointment Process | CEC and ECs appointed by President based on recommendation of a Selection Committee (PM, Leader of Opposition, Cabinet Minister). |
| Search Committee | Led by Cabinet Secretary, shortlists candidates. |
| Eligibility | Candidates must have held senior government positions equivalent to Secretary rank. |
| Tenure | Six years or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier; no reappointment. |
| Salary & Status | CEC's salary equated with Cabinet Secretary, down from Supreme Court judges. |
| Removal of ECs | Only on the recommendation of the CEC. |
| Current Political Dynamics | Opposition parties raise concerns over impartiality, discuss removal motion. |
| Exclusion of CJI | Chief Justice of India excluded from selection committee under 2023 Act. |
| Post-retirement Appointments | No restriction on post-retirement government appointments for CECs and ECs. |
| Supreme Court Petitions | Petitions pending regarding judicial review of the 2023 Act. |
| Relevance for Exams | Covers constitutional provisions, independence of constitutional bodies, recent legal developments, and precedent-setting legislation. |
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