ECI stands for Election Commission of India, which is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for conducting elections in the country.
The ECI was established on January 25, 1950, under Article 324 of the Constitution of India.
The main functions of the ECI include conducting elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice President of India.
The ECI is headed by the Chief Election Commissioner, who is assisted by two Election Commissioners.
The ECI is responsible for ensuring free and fair elections by enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, monitoring election expenses, and preventing electoral malpractices.
The ECI also registers political parties, recognizes national and state parties, and allots symbols to contesting candidates.
The ECI conducts voter awareness programs, voter registration drives, and ensures the smooth conduct of elections across the country.
The ECI uses Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for conducting elections, which have made the voting process faster, efficient, and tamper-proof.
The ECI also conducts opinion polls and exit polls to gauge public opinion and trends before and after elections.
The ECI has played a crucial role in strengthening democracy in India by ensuring the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections.