Answer:

The Constitution of India under Article 324 provides for an independent and permanent Election Commission of India (ECI). It has the powers of superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to the Parliament, the state legislatures, and the offices of the President and the Vice- President.

Advisory functions of the ECI

♤ It advises the President and Governor on matters relating to the disqualification of the sitting members of the Parliament and state legislatures respectively. Also such an opinion is binding on the President or the Governor.

♤ It advises the President whether elections can be held in a state under President's rule in order to extend the period of emergency after one year.

♤ It also gives it opinion to the higher judiciary on the question of disqualifications and the time period for which it lasts.