The former Governor of Kerala, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, recommended the removal of the State Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman M R Baiju due to alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. This recommendation, sent to President Droupadi Murmu shortly before Arlekar left office, has caused a significant political dispute in Kerala.
- The former Governor cited allegations and ongoing investigations into PSC recruitment irregularities as reasons for recommending Baiju's removal.
- The CPI (M)-led opposition LDF called the recommendation unconstitutional, while the BJP welcomed it.
- The Congress-led UDF ministers showed divided opinions on the matter.
- The Crime Branch is investigating alleged irregularities in PSC exams, including the post of chief of the State Planning Board.
- The BJP's youth wing, Yuva Morcha, submitted complaints that led to the Governor's action.
What led the former Governor to recommend the removal of the PSC Chairman?
Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar recommended the removal of M R Baiju following allegations of irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission's recruitment processes. Complaints were submitted by groups such as Yuva Morcha and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Arlekar sought reports from the PSC's internal vigilance wing and examined the Crime Branch investigation before sending his recommendation to the President.
How have political parties in Kerala reacted to the recommendation?
The recommendation has divided political opinion in Kerala. The CPI (M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) strongly opposed the move, labeling it unconstitutional and an abuse of power. They argue that the removal of PSC officials must follow the procedure outlined in Article 317 of the Constitution and that the Governor acted without the state government's advice.
On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) welcomed the recommendation. The BJP's youth wing, Yuva Morcha, which initially submitted complaints about PSC irregularities, supports dissolving the commission. BJP leaders have criticized the state government for not addressing the concerns of job aspirants.
The United Democratic Front (UDF) ministers are split. Health Minister K Muraleedharan supports the removal, citing corruption within the PSC, while Revenue Minister A P Anilkumar opposes the move, criticizing the Governor for acting without informing the state government.
What investigations are ongoing regarding PSC recruitment irregularities?
The Crime Branch is investigating alleged irregularities in PSC examinations, including the recruitment for the post of chief of the State Planning Board. The probe has expanded to cover other PSC exams as well. These investigations contributed to the Governor's decision to recommend the removal of the PSC Chairman.
What are the constitutional concerns raised about the Governor's action?
Opposition leaders, including CPI(M) veteran Pinarayi Vijayan, argue that the Governor's recommendation is unconstitutional. They cite Article 163 of the Constitution, which requires the Governor to act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. They also emphasize that removal of PSC members must follow the procedure under Article 317. The Governor's action is seen as an illegal intervention in state affairs.
What is the current stance of the Kerala state government?
The Kerala government has expressed concern over the Governor's move. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala stated he could not comment without reviewing the matter and noted that the letter was sent without informing the state government. Agriculture Minister T Siddique assured that the government is committed to ensuring accountability and bringing those responsible for irregularities to justice. The government has taken the allegations seriously and ordered a Crime Branch investigation.
What impact has this controversy had on PSC candidates and the public?
The controversy has heightened concerns among job aspirants and the public about the integrity of the PSC recruitment process. The BJP and its youth wing have supported protests by candidates affected by alleged irregularities. Despite assurances from the Chief Minister, the issue remains unresolved, causing frustration among youth and opposition parties.
