ELECTIONS IN INDIA: INSTITUTIONS, CHALLENGES, AND PATHWAYS TO REFORM

Abstract

This paper examines the constitutional vision, institutional framework, and contemporary challenges surrounding elections in India, with particular emphasis on the Election Commission of India (hereinafter, “ECI”). Envisaged under Article 324⁽¹⁾ of the Constitution of India, the ECI was established as an independent body to safeguard the democratic process and has historically commanded public trust as the guarantor of free and fair elections. However, recent developments reveal a troubling erosion of independence and transparency. High-profile allegations of large-scale voter roll irregularities in 2025, based on the ECI’s own records, have intensified concerns regarding duplicate entries, unverifiable addresses, and arbitrary deletions. The study employs a doctrinal and analytical methodology, supplemented with contemporary reports and case studies from electoral practices. It is argued herein that meaningful electoral reform, anchored in institutional independence, transparency, and appropriate technological safeguards, is imperative to preserve India’s constitutional promise of democracy through free and fair elections.