An election is a formal decision-making process by which a people chooses an individual to hold public office by voting. India is a socialist, secular, democratic republic and the largest democracy in the world. In a representative democracy like ours, elections are extremely important – voting is the best way to make your 'voice' heard.
1. Electoral System in India
- The electoral system in India has been adapted from the system followed in the United Kingdom.
- The Constitution of India came into force on 26th January 1950.
- Articles 324 to 329 in Part XV of the Constitution make provisions regarding the electoral system.
| Provision | What it says |
|---|---|
| Article 324 | Provides for an independent Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. At present it consists of a Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners. |
| Parliament | May make provision for all matters relating to elections to Parliament, including preparation of electoral rolls and delimitation of constituencies. |
| State legislatures | May make provision for all matters relating to elections to the state legislatures, including preparation of electoral rolls. |