The correct answer is (c) 1991.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established in 1950 under the Constitution of India. It is an independent body responsible for conducting elections to the Parliament of India, the legislative assemblies of the states and union territories, and the offices of the President and Vice President of India.
The ECI was originally a single-member body headed by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). However, in 1991, the ECI was made a multi-member body with the appointment of two Election Commissioners (ECs) to assist the CEC. This was done to ensure greater efficiency and transparency in the conduct of elections.
The ECI is headed by the CEC, who is appointed by the President of India on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The ECs are also appointed by the President on the recommendation of the CEC.
The ECI has its headquarters in New Delhi and has offices in all the states and union territories. It is funded by the Government of India.
The ECI is responsible for the following:
- Conducting elections to the Parliament of India, the legislative assemblies of the states and union territories, and the offices of the President and Vice President of India.
- Ensuring that elections are conducted in a free, fair and impartial manner.
- Registering political parties and regulating their activities.
- Devising and implementing electoral reforms.
- Educating voters about their rights and responsibilities.
The ECI is a highly respected institution in India and has played a vital role in the country’s democratic development.