Previous Year Question
Who was the first Chief Election Commissioner of independent India?
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Solution
Sukumar Sen was the first Chief Election Commissioner of independent India.
The Election Commission of India was established on 25 January 1950. According to the Election Commission's official historical account, Sukumar Sen was appointed as India's first Chief Election Commissioner on 6 March 1950 and assumed office on 21 March 1950.
His tenure is historically significant because he conducted independent India's first two General Elections—1951–52 and 1957. The Election Commission of India itself identifies him as India's first Chief Election Commissioner and records his role in conducting these elections.
Important fact: The constitutional basis of the Election Commission is found in Article 324 of the Constitution. It vests the Election Commission with the superintendence, direction and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
Remember:
Election Commission established = 25 January 1950
First Chief Election Commissioner = Sukumar Sen
Appointed = 6 March 1950
Assumed office = 21 March 1950