Mains issueGS-2Editorials12 October 2026

Challenges to the Credibility and Integrity of India's Electoral System

An aspirant should be able to critically analyze the multifaceted challenges to the credibility of India's electoral system and propose comprehensive reforms involving all stakeholders to restore public trust and strengthen democratic processes.

Source: thehindu.comOriginal report

Understand the issue · 1/2

Why now

Recent protests concerning the Election Commission's conduct and the ongoing debate over the appointment process of Election Commissioners have brought the issue of electoral trust to the forefront, making it a critical area for Mains examination.

Core issue

The article discusses the growing concerns regarding the credibility and integrity of India's electoral system, despite its historical reputation as a strong democratic soft power. It highlights issues such as chronic allegations of partisan conduct by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the impact of disinformation, deepfakes, and money power (including institutional cash transfers) on electoral fairness. The piece also points to the subversion of the people's mandate through loopholes in the anti-defection law and opportunistic post-poll realignments. It emphasizes the need for collective action from all stakeholders – the ECI, executive, legislature, judiciary, political parties, and citizens – to fortify the electoral process, build safeguards, and restore trust, especially in light of recent controversies surrounding electoral roll management and the appointment of Election Commissioners.

Continue this issue

Turn the issue into an answer.

Unlock the issue map, answer-use material, grounded Mains PYQ connections and writing practice.

Unlock Mains Current Affairs