Political Science Class 10 Notes Chapter 2 The Electoral Process Maharashtra Board

Introduction

Elections are a key part of India’s democracy, allowing people to choose their representatives peacefully. They help different political parties get a chance to govern and bring changes to society. The electoral process must be free, fair, and reliable, and the Election Commission of India ensures this happens. This chapter explains the structure, functions, and role of the Election Commission, the election process, challenges, and suggested reforms.

What is Representation?

• Definition: In a democracy, it’s not practical for everyone to make decisions, so people elect representatives to govern on their behalf.
• Role of Representatives: They form the government, make policies, and work for the welfare of the people.
• Expectations: Representatives should be honest, efficient, trustworthy, and respect public opinions.

Election Commission of India

The Election Commission is an independent body created under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution to manage elections fairly.

Structure

• Composition: It has one Chief Election Commissioner and two other commissioners.
• Appointment: The President of India appoints the commissioners.
• Independence:
  • The Chief Election Commissioner cannot be easily removed for political reasons, ensuring the commission’s independence.
  • The Election Commission’s expenses are separately funded.
• Staff: It does not have its own staff. Government officers, teachers, and other employees assist during elections.
• First Chief Election Commissioner: Sukumar Sen (1950), who managed elections efficiently under tough conditions.

Functions of the Election Commission

1. Preparing the Voters’ List:

• Every Indian citizen above 18 years has the right to vote.
• The Election Commission prepares and updates the voters’ list and issues voter identity cards.
• Ensures only eligible voters are included.

2. Deciding Election Timetable:

• The Election Commission decides when elections will happen and in how many phases they will be conducted in each state.

3. Scrutiny of Candidates’ Applications:

• Political parties and independent candidates submit applications with personal details.
• The Election Commission checks these applications to allow only eligible candidates to contest.

4. Recognition of Political Parties:

• India has a multi-party system, with new parties forming regularly.
• The Election Commission recognizes political parties, assigns election symbols, and can derecognize parties if needed.

5. Resolving Election Disputes:

• The Election Commission settles disputes related to elections.
• It can disqualify candidates or order re-elections in specific constituencies.

The Election Process

The election process involves several steps to ensure a smooth and fair election:

1. Establishment of Constituencies:

• The Delimitation Commission creates constituencies for elections (e.g., 543 constituencies for Lok Sabha).
• It works independently to avoid external pressure.

2. Finalizing Voters’ List:

• The Election Commission prepares and updates the list of eligible voters.

3. Nomination and Scrutiny:

• Candidates file nominations, and the Election Commission checks their eligibility.

4. Election Campaign:

• Parties and candidates promote their ideas to convince voters.

5. Actual Voting:

• Voters cast their votes using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) or other methods.

6. Counting of Votes:

• Votes are counted under the supervision of the Election Commission.

7. Declaration of Results:

• Winners are announced after counting.

8. Resolution of Disputes:

• The Election Commission handles any issues or complaints about the election.

Code of Conduct

What is it?: A set of rules set by the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections.

Who follows it?: The government, political parties, candidates, and voters.

Purpose: To prevent malpractices like bribery, violence, or unfair campaigning.

Examples of Violations:

• Distributing household items to influence voters.
• Appealing for votes based on caste or religion.

Impact: Strict enforcement has increased voter confidence in recent elections.

Types of Elections

General Elections:

• Held every five years for Lok Sabha or state assemblies to elect a new government.

Midterm Elections:

• Conducted if the government loses its majority before its term ends (e.g., due to coalition withdrawal or no-confidence motion).

By-Elections:

• Held to fill a vacant seat in Lok Sabha, state assemblies, or local bodies due to resignation or death of a representative.

Challenges in Conducting Free and Fair Elections

Conducting elections in a large country like India is challenging. Key issues include:

1. Misuse of Money:

• Candidates and parties spend huge amounts to influence voters, which the Election Commission tries to control.

2. Criminalization of Politics:

• Some parties give tickets to candidates with criminal backgrounds, creating an unsafe election environment.

3. Violence During Elections:

• Increasing violence during campaigns and voting is a major concern.

4. Family Monopoly in Politics:

• Leaders give tickets to relatives, limiting opportunities for others and creating political dynasties.

Electoral Reforms

To improve the electoral process, the following reforms are suggested:

1. Increase Women’s Participation:

• Political parties should give 50% tickets to women candidates to ensure better representation.

2. Ban Criminal Candidates:

• Parties should not nominate candidates with criminal records, and courts’ decisions should be strictly followed.

3. Government-Funded Elections:

• The government should cover election expenses to prevent misuse of money.

4. Amend Representation of the People Act:

• Change laws to stop candidates with criminal backgrounds from contesting elections.

Journey from Ballot Boxes to EVMs

First Elections (1951-52):

• Used ballot boxes with election symbols for illiterate voters.
• Voters dropped blank ballot papers into boxes of their chosen party.

Introduction of EVMs (1990s):

• Electronic Voting Machines replaced ballot boxes.
• Benefits:
  • NOTA (None of the Above) option for voters who don’t support any candidate.
  • Easier voting for disabled people (Divyang).
  • Reduced paper use, helping the environment.
  • Faster result declaration.

Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT):

• Introduced in 2010 to allow voters to verify their vote.
• Ensures transparency and prevents malpractices.