Elections play a very significant role in our Indian Democracy. In the light of this statement, answer the following questions:
(i) State the composition of the Election Commission.
(ii) Under what circumstances can a 'By-election' be held?
(iii) Explain the terms 'General Election' and 'Mid-term Election'.
(i) The Election Commission consists of three members — a chief Election Commissioner and two other Election Commissioners.
(ii) When a seat held by any member of the Legislative Assembly in the Centre or State falls vacant on account of death or resignation of the member before completion of his/her term, to fill up this vacancy By-Election is held.
(iii) General Election — The Elections held to elect the members of the Lok Sabha after expiry of the normal term of five years are called the General Elections.
Mid-Term Elections — This type of election is held when a State Legislative Assembly or the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its full term (5 years).