New Delhi: Navin Chawla will take over as the Chief Election Commissioner on Tuesday succeeding N Gopalaswami who not long ago had recommended his removal from Nirvachan Sadan sparking a huge political controversy.
The 63-year-old Chawla, who is 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.
He is the first CEC who will take over in the midst of the five-phased Lok Sabha elections and will oversee four phases of the polls.
Power Secretary VS Sampath will take over as Election Commissioner on Tuesday following the elevation of Chawla.
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 4 that Chawla would succeed him as CEC.
The Chief Election Commissioner, a Constitutional post, enjoys a term of six years or till the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
Chawla has 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 promote ties between India and Italy.
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