Who was the first Indian Chief Election Commissioner?a)Morarji Desaib)...
Sukumar Sen (1899–1961) was an Indian civil servant who was the first Chief Election Commissioner of India, serving from 21 March 1950 to 19 December 1958.
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Who was the first Indian Chief Election Commissioner?a)Morarji Desaib)...
The first Indian Chief Election Commissioner was Sukumar Sen.
Sukumar Sen was a prominent civil servant who served as the first Chief Election Commissioner of India. He was appointed to this position on 21 March 1950, the same day the Election Commission of India was established. Sen served in this role until 19 December 1958.
Background and Early Life:
Sukumar Sen was born on 10 July 1898 in Bengal. He completed his education from Presidency College, Kolkata, and later pursued a Master's degree in mathematics from the University of Cambridge.
Contribution as Chief Election Commissioner:
During his tenure as the Chief Election Commissioner, Sukumar Sen played a crucial role in shaping the electoral system of India. Some of his notable contributions include:
1. Conducting the First General Elections: Sen was responsible for organizing and conducting the first general elections in India in 1951-1952. These elections were a massive undertaking as they involved the participation of millions of voters across the country.
2. Introducing the Elector's Photo Identity Card: To ensure fair and transparent elections, Sen introduced the concept of Elector's Photo Identity Card (EPIC). This card became an essential document for voters to prove their identity during elections and prevent impersonation.
3. Establishing the Model Code of Conduct: Sen also played a significant role in developing the Model Code of Conduct, which lays down guidelines for political parties and candidates during elections. This code ensures that the electoral process remains fair and free from any malpractices.
4. Ensuring Electoral Reforms: Under his leadership, the Election Commission focused on implementing various electoral reforms. This included the introduction of electronic voting machines (EVMs), the establishment of a comprehensive electoral roll, and the implementation of strict rules to prevent corruption and misuse of power during elections.
Legacy:
Sukumar Sen's tenure as the Chief Election Commissioner laid a strong foundation for the electoral system in India. His efforts in conducting free and fair elections and introducing innovative measures have left a lasting impact on the Indian democracy. Today, the Election Commission of India continues to uphold the principles of integrity and impartiality in conducting elections, largely influenced by Sukumar Sen's vision and contributions.