CM questions former Governor's recommendation to remove Kerala PSC members
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan alleged that former Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar acted unilaterally regarding the Kerala Public Service Commission leadership.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Wednesday questioned the constitutional propriety of former Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar’s recommendation to the President to remove Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman M.R. Baiju and 15 members, according to South First.
Speaking at a Cabinet briefing, Satheesan said the recommendation was not made following prescribed procedure. He stated that Article 163 of the Constitution stipulates the Governor must act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, noting no consultation had taken place between the government and the former Governor.
The Chief Minister alleged that the CPI(M)-led Opposition is using the recommendation to create an impression that the government is targeting the PSC leadership to shield the current board. He said an investigation into alleged irregularities in PSC recruitment has revealed serious findings, though he declined to disclose details while the probe is underway.
Satheesan alleged that various appointments were secured through nepotism and political connections. He warned that the government would initiate legal proceedings against those found responsible.
The former Governor sent a report to President Droupadi Murmu on October 15 seeking action against Baiju and 15 members. The recommendation was kept confidential until Arlekar demitted office on October 23.
The issue led to a confrontation in the Assembly when Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan tried to raise the matter. Speaker Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan disallowed the submission, citing rules that prohibit debates concerning the President or the Governor.