In India, Election Commission is central to the process of elections. To ensure that the electoral process is free, fair and reliable, Article 324 of the Indian Constitution established the Election Commission which is an autonomous body.
Following are the functions of the Election Commission:
i. Preparing the voters' list: The Election Commission prepares the list of eligible voters, updates the existing voters' list, includes the names of new voters and provides identity cards to them.
ii. Deciding the timetable and programme of elections: In every state, when to conduct elections and in how many stages to hold it is all decided by the Election Commission.
iii. Scrutinising the applications of candidates: The applications providing information of candidates contesting the elections is scrutinised by the Election Commission and only eligible candidates are allowed to contest the elections.
iv. Giving recognition to political parties: In India, there is multiparty system. All political parties are required to be recognised by the Election Commission. Thus, Election Commission has the right to recognise and to derecognise any political party. It also has the right to allot election symbols to the political parties.
v. Resolving disputes relating to elections: The Election Commission resolves any disputes that may arise regarding elections. Accordingly, declaring any candidate as disqualified or conducting re-election in a particular constituency is the sole responsibility of the Election Commission.