For nearly four decades of the history of the Republic of India, not many people noticed the Election Commission of India (ECI). Not many were aware of the provisions in Part XV of the Constitution of India.

Elections were held once in five years to the Lok Sabha and to the State Assemblies. People flocked to vote but few were aware of the law, the rules, the arrangements, the preparations, and the process leading to the outcome. If one found his/her name in the electoral rolls, one could vote — several millions did vote and several thousands did not vote. Whichever candidate won the election in a constituency, a big majority of voters accepted it, and moved on.

Elections were largely uneventful barring some incidents of violence or impersonation. However, behind the calm facade there lay many injustices. Vast numbers of people were not included in the electoral rolls. Large sections of the electorate were prevented from exercising their right to vote — especially Dalits, tribals, groups of persons belonging to the backward communities in areas where there was a dominant community, and religious minorities. There was a hue and cry for a few days, but it died down soon.

The ECI was represented by the Chief Election Commissioner. The CEC was a distinguished civil servant but, by and large, faceless........

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