The term Presiding Officer appears frequently in two major contexts in Indian Civics: during Elections, and inside the Parliament/State Assemblies.
During elections, the Election Commission of India has immense power. The Presiding Officer at a booth is considered an officer of the Election Commission for that day, and even the police at the booth must follow their instructions regarding booth management.
During elections in India, a Presiding Officer (पीठासीन अधिकारी) is the head of a specific Polling Station (voting booth).
Duties:
In a legislature, the Presiding Officer is the person who runs the house, maintains discipline, and ensures rules are followed.
The District Election Officer (usually the District Magistrate / Collector) appoints the Presiding Officer and Polling Officers for all booths in their district.
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