Correct Option
The correct option is 3 only.
Explanation
Article 324 of the Indian Constitution provides for the superintendence, direction, and control of elections to be vested in an Election Commission. The Constitution provides for the composition of the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the appointment of its members.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Election Commission has not always been a multi-member body. From its inception in 1950 until October 15, 1989, it functioned as a single-member body consisting only of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). On October 16, 1989, two more Election Commissioners were appointed, making it a multi-member body. It reverted to a single-member body in 1990 but became a multi-member body again in October 1993. It has remained a multi-member body since then.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) does not possess veto power over the other Election Commissioners. Under the relevant Act regulating their conditions of service, the CEC and other Election Commissioners have equal powers and receive equal salaries. In case of a difference of opinion amongst the Chief Election Commissioner and/or two other Election Commissioners, the matter is decided by the opinion of the majority.
- Statement 3 is Correct. According to Article 324(2), the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners shall be made by the President, subject to the provisions of any law made in that behalf by Parliament. Historically, the President made these appointments on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
Key Takeaway: The Election Commission is currently a multi-member body where the Chief Election Commissioner functions as the primus inter pares (first among equals); they do not hold veto power, and decisions are taken by a majority vote.