**The first Chief Election Commissioner in independent India was Sukumar Sen.**

**Background:**
- The Election Commission of India is an autonomous constitutional body responsible for overseeing and conducting elections in the country.
- It was established on 25th January 1950, the day India became a republic.
- The first general elections were conducted in 1951-52, and the Election Commission played a crucial role in ensuring their fair and transparent conduct.

**Sukumar Sen:**
- Sukumar Sen, an Indian Civil Service officer, was appointed as the first Chief Election Commissioner of India.
- He served in this position from 21st March 1950 to 19th December 1958.
- Sen was known for his integrity, intelligence, and commitment to democratic principles.

**Contributions and Achievements:**
1. **First General Elections:** Sen played a pivotal role in organizing and conducting the first general elections in India.
- These elections were the largest exercise of democracy in the world at that time, with over 170 million people eligible to vote.
- Sen and his team successfully managed the mammoth task of voter registration, delimitation of constituencies, logistics, and the actual conduct of elections.
- These elections laid the foundation for India's democratic system and established the credibility of the Election Commission.

2. **Introduction of Electoral Rolls:** Sen introduced the concept of electoral rolls and implemented them effectively.
- Electoral rolls helped ensure that only eligible voters were included in the voter list and prevented any fraudulent practices.
- The process of voter registration and the preparation of electoral rolls became an important component of subsequent elections.

3. **Secrecy of Voting:** Sen emphasized the importance of maintaining secrecy in the voting process.
- He introduced the concept of the sealed ballot, which ensured that the voter's choice remained confidential.
- This safeguarded the freedom of voters to express their preferences without fear of repercussions.

4. **Fair Conduct of Elections:** Sen was committed to conducting free and fair elections.
- He implemented strict rules and guidelines to prevent malpractices and electoral fraud.
- His efforts helped establish the credibility of the electoral process in India.

5. **Institutional Development:** Sen's tenure witnessed the development and strengthening of the Election Commission as an independent and impartial institution.
- He laid the foundation for future Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners to uphold democratic principles and ensure the smooth conduct of elections.

**Conclusion:**
Sukumar Sen's contributions as the first Chief Election Commissioner of India were instrumental in establishing the Election Commission as a fair and independent body responsible for conducting elections. His efforts in organizing the first general elections and implementing various reforms set the stage for subsequent elections in the country. His commitment to democracy and the principles of free and fair elections remains a guiding force for the Election Commission of India.