The Election Commission of India's authority to ensure free and fair elections stems from Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. This article mandates the Commission to direct, control, and conduct elections for Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India. It is vital to distinguish the functions of each article.
Article
Purpose
Article 324
Election Commission of India's powers and responsibilities
Article 280
Finance Commission provisions
Article 264
Constitution commencement
Article 26
Religious affairs management freedom
Article 324 is the correct selection, as it empowers the Election Commission.