Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar has recommended to the President the removal of Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) chairman Dr M.R. Baiju and 15 other members, in an unprecedented move in the state’s history.

Arlekar submitted the recommendation about a week before leaving office as Kerala Governor. The move followed complaints against the commission, including those filed by the BJP’s youth wing, Yuva Morcha, and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

The recommendation comes amid allegations of irregularities in PSC examinations and appointments. An investigation into an appointment to the State Planning Board reportedly found irregularities, triggering further complaints and raising questions over the conduct of some examinations.

The state government ordered a Crime Branch investigation into the alleged irregularities. However, the PSC chairman, members and officials reportedly did not appear before the investigating team. The commission also faced sharp criticism from the Kerala High Court over the progress of the investigation.

What the Constitution says

The PSC is an independent constitutional body, and the Governor cannot directly dismiss its chairman or members.

Following a report from the Governor, the President can refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry. If such an inquiry is initiated, the Governor can suspend the chairman or members concerned while the proceedings are pending.

The President can order their removal after the Supreme Court conducts the inquiry and reports grounds warranting such action. The Governor’s recommendation is therefore a step in the constitutional process and does not, by itself, remove the chairman or members from office.