Calls grow for judicial probe into Kerala PSC as Satheesan govt faces first major credibility test

Thiruvananthapuram, July 7 (IANS) Allegations of irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) have intensified, placing the spotlight on the weekly Cabinet meeting of the V.D. Satheesan government on Wednesday, which is expected to signal the new administration’s approach towards one of the state’s most important constitutional institutions. 

Veteran Congress leader Cherian Philip has demanded a comprehensive judicial inquiry into the alleged irregularities that, according to him, have surfaced in the PSC over the past decade.

He has called for an immediate probe into appointments made in the State Planning Board and the Public Relations Department (PRD), registration of criminal cases against those found guilty, and sweeping reforms in the structure, administration and functioning of the constitutional body.

Philip has also sought a thorough investigation into allegations ranging from flaws in question paper preparation, question paper leaks, manipulation in the valuation of answer scripts, malpractice in viva voce examinations and corruption in appointments.

In his social media post, Philip further alleged that the PSC, despite being a constitutional institution, had been thoroughly politicised.

He claimed that appointments to the Commission had become political patronage, with allegations that influential political leaders accepted money for securing membership and that quota-based appointments allotted to coalition partners had become subjects of political bargaining.

He also called for a reduction in the salaries of the PSC Chairman and members, arguing that they receive emoluments and pension benefits higher than several top constitutional and administrative functionaries.

A look into the past reveals what Phillip said is true, as appointments to the PSC have remained the prerogative of the government of the day.

Successive governments, irrespective of political affiliation, have largely nominated individuals considered politically close to the ruling dispensation.

Membership of the Commission has often gone to senior party functionaries, leaders who narrowly missed Assembly nominations, those defeated in elections, or close relatives and trusted associates of influential political leaders.

The present Commission reflects appointments made during the decade-long tenure of the previous LDF government headed by Pinarayi Vijayan. The existing body comprises a Chairman and 15 members, all appointed during that period.

Under the rules governing the Commission, members continue in office until attaining the age of 62 or completing a six-year tenure, whichever is earlier.

The immediate past PSC Chairman, after completing his tenure, was appointed Chairman of the Kerala Wakf Board and was later fielded by the Left as an Assembly candidate, though he was defeated in a constituency traditionally considered favourable to the CPI(M).

At present, five vacancies exist in the Commission. With the Congress-led UDF now in power, political circles are already abuzz with lobbying by various coalition constituents seeking representation in the vacancies. The appointments are expected to become one of the first major tests of the new government’s commitment to reforming the institution.

Against this backdrop, the Cabinet’s response to the mounting allegations assumes considerable significance.

Whether the government opts for an independent and transparent investigation into the allegations, institutes structural reforms in the Commission, or limits itself to administrative measures will be closely watched.

The decisions taken in the coming days are likely to determine not only the future credibility of the PSC but also the new government’s resolve to restore public confidence in one of Kerala’s most important constitutional institutions.

–IANS

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