Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu have been appointed as Election Commissioners in the Election Commission of India. This comes at a crucial time as the commission is gearing up for the General Elections 2024 in the world's largest democracy. The two commissioners, who have decades of experience in the Indian Administrative Service, were welcomed by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, who emphasized the importance of their appointment.
Appointment of Two New Election Commissioners in India
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently appointed two new Election Commissioners, Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu. This appointment comes at a crucial time as the commission prepares for the upcoming General Elections in 2024.
Background
The ECI is an independent constitutional body responsible for conducting free and fair elections in India. It is headed by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners. The current CEC is Rajiv Kumar.
Gyanesh Kumar
Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu
Appointment Process
The new Election Commissioners were appointed by President Droupadi Murmu on the recommendation of the CEC. Their appointments have been widely welcomed by political parties and civil society groups.
Significance
The appointment of two new Election Commissioners strengthens the ECI and ensures its independence and impartiality. The commissioners bring decades of experience in public administration and election management to the commission. Their expertise will be invaluable in preparing for the upcoming General Elections, which are expected to be one of the most challenging in Indian history.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the role of the Election Commissioners? The Election Commissioners assist the CEC in conducting free and fair elections and enforcing the Election Commission's rules and regulations.
2. What are the qualifications for an Election Commissioner? Election Commissioners must be senior IAS officers with at least 15 years of experience. They should have a deep understanding of election management and public administration.
3. What is the tenure of an Election Commissioner? Election Commissioners serve for a period of six years or until they reach the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
4. Who has been the longest-serving Election Commissioner? J.M. Lyngdoh has been the longest-serving Election Commissioner, serving from 1996 to 2001.
5. What is the difference between the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners? The Chief Election Commissioner is the head of the Election Commission and has overall responsibility for the conduct of elections. The Election Commissioners assist the CEC and have equal powers in decision-making.
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