Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 4 — 3 only

The Election Commission of India is a three-member body (one Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners), not five-member. The ECI itself decides the election schedule under Article 324, not the Ministry of Home Affairs. Only Statement 3 is correct as the ECI has the statutory power to resolve disputes relating to splits and mergers of recognized political parties and allocate symbols accordingly.

❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: The ECI is a three-member body consisting of the Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners, not five members.

❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: The Election Commission of India, not the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, decides the election schedule for general elections and by-elections under Article 324 of the Constitution.

✅ Statement 3 – Correct: The Election Commission has the authority to resolve disputes relating to splits and mergers of recognized political parties and decide on the allocation of party symbols.