Q. Consider the following statements:
1.The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner of India.
2.The tenure of the Chief Election Commissioner is 5 years or up to 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.
3.The Chief Election Commissioner’s salary and perks are equivalent to the Cabinet Secretary.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanations –
Statement 1 is correct. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is appointed by the President of India, as per Article 324(2) of the Constitution, on the recommendation of a selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and a Cabinet Minister.
Statements 2 and 3 are incorrect. As per the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the CEC holds office for a term of six years from the date on which he assumes office or until he attains the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier. The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, states that the salary, allowances, and other conditions of service of the CEC and Election Commissioners shall be equal to those of a Judge of the Supreme Court.
Source: The Hindu
