By The Sampadak Express
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will convene on Monday to select the next Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). This meeting of the selection panel is crucial as Rajiv Kumar, the current CEC, is set to retire on February 18.
For the first time, a selection panel will be responsible for choosing the head of the Election Commission. The new CEC will oversee key elections, including those in Bihar, Bengal, and Tamil Nadu next year.
How is the Chief Election Commissioner Appointed?
The Election Commission (EC) is a three-member body, consisting of one CEC and two Election Commissioners. The process of appointing the CEC is governed by a new law, the CEC and Other Election Commissioners Bill, 2023. According to the law, a selection committee led by the Prime Minister will finalize the name for the CEC position.
The panel includes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi
Home Minister Amit Shah
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
This committee will review the candidates shortlisted by a search committee, which is headed by the Cabinet Secretary. The president will then appoint the new CEC based on the recommendation of the selection panel.
Changes in the Appointment Process
Previously, the senior-most Election Commissioner would automatically be elevated to CEC after the incumbent’s retirement. There were no specific laws governing this process, and the President made appointments based on the Prime Minister’s advice.
However, with the passing of the CEC and Other Election Commissioners Bill, 2023, the appointment process has been formalized. The CEC and Election Commissioners will now be selected from a panel of names proposed by the search committee, which shortlists eligible secretary-level officers. Candidates must possess integrity and experience in election management.
Ultimately, the President will appoint the CEC and ECs based on recommendations from the selection committee, ensuring a more structured and transparent process.
