India is the world’s largest democracy and transparent elections are one of the most important responsibilities of the Election Commission of India (ECI). The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is the head of this independent body, overseeing the entire electoral process, from conducting general elections to state assembly polls and even by-elections. The CEC plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of India’s democracy by ensuring that elections are held without bias or influence.
Recently, Gyanesh Kumar was appointed as India’s new Chief Election Commissioner, succeeding Rajiv Kumar, who retired upon reaching the age of 65. His appointment comes at a critical time, as India prepares for upcoming elections, including state polls and possibly major electoral reforms.
Over the years, several distinguished Chief Election Commissioners have contributed to shaping India’s electoral process. This GK Quiz on Chief Election Commissioners of India is designed to test your knowledge about the history, responsibilities, and key contributions of India’s past and present CECs. Whether you’re a student preparing for competitive exams, a quiz enthusiast, or someone interested in Indian democracy, this quiz will help you learn interesting facts about the people who have shaped the way elections are conducted in India.
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1. Who was the first Chief Election Commissioner of India?
a) Sukumar Sen
b) T.N. Seshan
c) K.V.K. Sundaram
d) S.L. Shakdhar
Answer: a) Sukumar Sen
Explanation: Sukumar Sen served as India’s first CEC from 1950 to 1958.
2. In which year was the Election Commission of India established?
a) 1947
b) 1950
c) 1952
d) 1961
Answer: b) 1950
Explanation: The ECI was formed on January 25, 1950, to conduct and regulate elections in India.*
3. Who was the Chief Election Commissioner when NOTA (None of the Above) was introduced in 2013?
a) V.S. Sampath
b) S.Y. Quraishi
c) N. Gopalaswami
d) T.S. Krishnamurthy
Answer: a) V.S. Sampath
Explanation: NOTA was introduced under CEC V.S. Sampath following a Supreme Court ruling in 2013.
4. How long is the term of the Chief Election Commissioner?
a) 3 years
b) 5 years
c) 6 years or until 65 years of age
d) 4 years
Answer: c) 6 years or until 65 years of age
Explanation: The CEC holds office for six years or until reaching the age of 65, whichever comes first.
5. Who was the first woman Chief Election Commissioner of India?
a) G.V.G. Krishnamurthy
b) V.S. Ramadevi
c) Manohar Singh Gill
d) Rajiv Kumar
Answer: b) V.S. Ramadevi
Explanation: V.S. Ramadevi was the first and only woman to serve as CEC, from November 1990 to December 1990.
6. Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner of India?
a) The Prime Minister
b) The Lok Sabha
c) The Supreme Court
d) The President of India
Answer: d) The President of India
Explanation: The CEC is appointed by the President of India as per Article 324 of the Constitution.*
7. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is enforced from which point in time?
a) The day elections are announced
b) The day of polling
c) The day of vote counting
d) The day the new government is formed
Answer: a) The day elections are announced
Explanation: The MCC comes into effect immediately after election dates are announced by the ECI.
8. Who was the Chief Election Commissioner of India during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections?
a) V.S. Sampath
b) Om Prakash Rawat
c) Sunil Arora
d) Sushil Chandra
Answer: c) Sunil Arora
Explanation: Sunil Arora served as CEC from 2018 to 2021 and conducted the 2019 general elections.
9. Who succeeded Rajiv Kumar as the Chief Election Commissioner in 2025?
a) Sunil Arora
b) Gyanesh Kumar
c) Sushil Chandra
d) Om Prakash Rawat
Answer: b) Gyanesh Kumar
Explanation: Gyanesh Kumar was appointed as CEC in 2025, replacing Rajiv Kumar.
10. Who was the first Muslim Chief Election Commissioner of India?
a) S.Y. Quraishi
b) N. Gopalaswami
c) T.N. Seshan
d) S.L. Shakdhar
Answer: a) S.Y. Quraishi
Explanation: S.Y. Quraishi was the first Muslim CEC, serving from 2010 to 2012.
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