- Sukumar Sen (1898–1963) was an Indian civil servant and the first Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, serving from 21 March 1950 to 19 December 1958.
- He was a member of the Indian Civil Service (ICS) and was known for his administrative efficiency and integrity.
- As the first CEC, Sukumar Sen had the monumental task of organizing India’s first democratic elections after independence.
- Sukumar Sen oversaw the 1951–52 general elections, which were the first-ever democratic elections in India and also the largest in the world at the time.
- Approximately 173 million voters participated, with about 85% illiterate.
- Ballot boxes were transported across the country, including remote and inaccessible areas, using trains, boats, elephants, and even human carriers.
- The Representation of the People Act (1951) laid the foundation for the electoral process.
- The elections were a resounding success, solidifying India’s transition into a parliamentary democracy.
- The Indian National Congress, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, emerged victorious, winning a majority.
- Sukumar Sen also managed the 1957 general elections, further improving and streamlining the electoral process.
- His efficient leadership ensured that the elections were conducted smoothly, bolstering the credibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
- In addition to his work in India, Sukumar Sen was invited by Sudan to oversee its first parliamentary elections in 1953.
- His expertise played a crucial role in establishing a solid electoral process in Sudan, contributing to the development of democracy in that country.
- Pioneer of Indian Democracy: Sukumar Sen’s meticulous planning and execution of India’s first elections became a benchmark in electoral history.
- Global Influence: His work in Sudan demonstrated India’s ability to contribute to international democratic practices.
- Recognition: Despite his significant contributions, Sukumar Sen remained a modest figure, receiving less public recognition than he truly deserved.
- Sukumar Sen was the first Chief Election Commissioner of India, serving from 1950 to 1958. He oversaw the country’s first two general elections in 1951–52 and 1957, laying the foundation for India’s democratic process.
- His leadership helped establish the credibility of the Election Commission of India and made him a key figure in shaping the world’s largest democracy.
- Beyond India, Sukumar Sen also contributed to Sudan’s first parliamentary elections in 1953, showcasing his expertise on a global stage.
