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HomeNation16th Chief Election Commissioner Navin Chawla Dies

16th Chief Election Commissioner Navin Chawla Dies

New Delhi [India], February 1: The Election Commission of India observed a period of mourning following the death of former Chief Election Commissioner Navin B. Chawla on Saturday. He was 79 years old.

Chawla, who served as the 16th Chief Election Commissioner, was a distinguished officer from the 1969 batch of the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), AGMUT cadre. He held the position of Election Commissioner from May 16, 2005, to April 20, 2009, before becoming CEC on April 21, 2009. He succeeded N. Gopalaswami as the Chief Election Commissioner, a role he held until July 29, 2010.

Under his leadership, the Election Commission successfully oversaw the 2009 General Election to the Lok Sabha, as well as elections in seven state assemblies. Chawla was known for initiating several reforms, including allowing third-gender voters to opt for a new “Other” category, in addition to “Male” and “Female.” He also pushed for constitutional reforms to ensure the removal process of Election Commissioners aligned with that of the CEC.

The Election Commission of India expressed its condolences, stating that Chawla’s leadership and dedication to the electoral process will continue to inspire the institution.

In addition to his work with the Election Commission, Chawla, inspired by Mother Teresa, authored an authorized biography on her life and contributions.

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