Arun Goel, a retired IAS officer of the 1985 Punjab cadre, assumed charge as the new Election Commissioner (EC) of India on 21st November.
Key points
- Goel joins chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar and election commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey.
- The post had been vacant since former CEC Sushil Chandra retired on May 14, handing charge to Rajiv Kumar.
- Arun Goel was to retire on December 31 at the age of 60 but took voluntary retirement on 18th November.
- He was serving as the heavy industries secretary until his voluntary retirement. Previously, he served in the union culture ministry.
- Arun Goel is also next in line to be chief election commissioner (CEC) – when incumbent Rajiv Kumar demits office in February 2025.
The election commissioner or CEC post can be held for up to six years or till attaining the age of 65.
