The Public Service Commission (PSC) rank list is being rendered ineffective following steps to eliminate typist posts and create higher-category class one officer positions. Despite being designated as typists, the posts involve computer-related duties, and their removal is leading to the loss of employment opportunities.

The move is expected to affect candidates, many of whom are women, who are unable to qualify for alternative posts due to age limits. The process has reportedly begun to abolish nearly 100 typist posts across various government departments.

In the Revenue Department, two typist posts have already been removed in Wayanad and Idukki districts to facilitate the appointment of a deputy collector. At the same time, the Police Department has been directed to surrender the posts of AR cashier, office assistant and typist for the creation of five accounts officer positions.

A recommendation has also been put forward in the Cooperative Department to shift 32 typists to other categories of posts.

Officials have cited lack of workload as the reason for restructuring these positions. However, earlier service rules had mandated that a typist should complete 20 pages of Malayalam typing or 704 lines in English per day. With the introduction of computers, this directive became outdated.

The All Kerala Typist and Stenographers Association had earlier submitted a complaint seeking a revision of the rule framed in 1981. Following this, an order was issued directing authorities to reassess the required workforce for the post within six months.

Meanwhile, steps are also being taken to regularise technical assistants working on a temporary basis in local self-government institutions, similar to the typist category. In this regard, the Principal Director has written to District Joint Directors seeking their views on the matter.