| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 3 December 1993 [1] |
| Jurisdiction | Kerala |
| Headquarters | Thiruvananthapuram |
| Agency executive |
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| Website | www |
Kerala State Election Commission is an autonomous and constitutional body constituted in Indian state of Kerala for ensuring that elections are conducted in a free, fair and unbiased way. Constitution of India with provisions as per Article 243K and 243 ZA and Article 324 ensures creation and safeguarding of the powers of State Election Commissions. The Kerala State Election Commission is responsible for conducting elections for Urban Local Bodies like Municipalities and Municipal Corporations, as well as Rural Local Bodies like Panchayats (which include Gram Panchayats, Block Panchayats, and District Panchayats), and any others specified by the Election Commission of India. Kerala State Election Commissioner is appointed by Governor of Kerala.
Kerala State Election Commission was formed in accordance with powers of Election Commission of India, which was constituted in year 1950 [2] to supervise state level elections. [3] State election commissioner is appointed by Governor. [4] [5] To ensure the autonomy of the position, the Kerala state election commissioner cannot be removed from office except on the grounds and manner specified for judge of High Court.
Kerala State Election Commission operates from Vikas Bhavan premises, located near Kerala State Assembly premises. [6]
Kerala States Election Commissioner is responsible for the following: [2] [7]
Kerala State Election Commission is headed by Chief Election Commissioner and as many members as specified in State Act. [12] State Election Commissioners are independent persons not holding position or office in any Central or State Government organisations [13]
Sri A.Shajahan IAS, is the Chief Election Commissioner of Kerala State Election Commission. [14] His period of service will be 5 years or attaining an age of 65 years whichever is earlier.
At the district level, the District Collector is designated as the District Election Officer (DEO) for conducting elections to local self-government institutions (LSGIs). The Deputy Collector (Election) functions as the Assistant District Election Officer (ADEO), assisting the DEO in all election-related responsibilities. The District Collector also acts as the Returning Officer for District Panchayat elections.
Officers from the Local Self Government Department and other officials from various government departments will assist the State Election Commission for the conduction of the Election. The commission Authorize such officers to various duties.
Kerala State Election Commission was formed after amendment of Constitution with 73rd and 74th declaration. [15] State Election Commissions were formed as per Article 243K of the Constitution, similar to setting up of Election commission of India as per Article 324. [3]