INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 26th SEP 2026

Summary of Important News Items Editorials-473

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 26th SEP 2026.

(for reading Indian Express News items from 1 to 472 please visit –

web.prernaforias.com)

1. Election Commission — Independence Begins with Appointment

The Ideas-page article argues that the independence of the Election Commission of India (ECI) depends substantially on how Election Commissioners are appointed. Recent reports of disagreements within the Commission over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) have revived questions about institutional autonomy. The constitutional scheme under Article 324 envisages an independent body capable of conducting free and fair elections, but independence requires more than security of tenure after appointment. The article's logic is that the method of selection must itself inspire public confidence and minimise perceptions of executive dominance. Judicial precedents have repeatedly stressed that constitutional institutions must not only function independently but also appear independent. Stand: the appointment framework should contain meaningful institutional checks and a credible consultative mechanism rather than allowing excessive control by the government of the day. Gist: democracy depends heavily on confidence in its electoral umpire; therefore, transparent appointments, collegial functioning and institutional safeguards are essential for preserving the ECI's legitimacy.

2. Differences Within Election Commission — How Does the ECI Take Decisions?