Navin Chawla takes over as CEC

New Delhi, Apr 21 (PTI) Navin Chawla Tuesday took over as
the new Chief Election Commissioner succeeding N Gopalaswami,
who not long ago had recommended his removal from Nirvachan
Sadan sparking a huge political controversy.

Power Secretary V S Sampath also took over as the third
Election Commissioner following the elevation of Chawla.

64-year-old Chawla, who was the senior-most Election
Commissioner after Gopalaswami in the three-member panel, will
remain in office till June 29 next year when he turns 65.

The Chief Election Commissioner, a Constitutional post,
enjoys a term of six years or till the age of 65 years,
whichever is earlier.

He is the first CEC, who took over in the midst of a
five-phased Lok Sabha (Lower House of Indian Parliament)
elections and will oversee four phases of the polls.

The elevation of Chawla, who was appointed as Election
Commissioner on May 13, 2005, comes after a controversy
triggered by Gopalaswami's recommendation to the President for
his removal from office for alleged partisan functioning.

The government had not only turned down Gopalswami's
recommendation but had even announced on March four that
Chawla would succeed him as CEC.

While demitting office yesterday after an eventful
stint, Goplaswami wished Chawla "a very bright tenure".

Chawla had earlier served in various capacities in the
government during his chequered career, the last being
Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

He has also served as Secretary to the Union Public
Service Commission (UPSC). Chawla was secretary to the
Lieutenant Governor of Delhi at the time of Emergency.

He has authored a number of books, including an
authorised biography of Mother Teresa which became popular
internationally.

Chawla is also a recipient of the Italian government's
Mazzini Award, instituted in honour of writer Giuseppe
Mazzini, for his contribution to promoting ties between India
and Italy. PTI