The ongoing controversy surrounding the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) has taken a new turn as Chief Minister VD Satheesan has raised questions about the actions of the opposition and former governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. The chief minister’s remarks came as investigations into alleged irregularities in PSC appointments continue to unfold.
Allegations Against the Former Governor
Chief Minister Satheesan has accused former governor Arlekar of recommending the removal of the PSC Chairman MR Baiju without consulting the state government. According to Satheesan, this action was taken unilaterally and not in accordance with constitutional procedures, which require such recommendations to be made in consultation with the government.
Satheesan further alleged that the opposition, led by the CPI(M), is using this recommendation to obscure their own misconduct within the recruitment body. He emphasized that the issues surrounding the governor’s recommendation and the PSC’s alleged irregularities are separate matters.
Irregularities in PSC Appointments
The controversy began with a State Planning Board recruitment exam where significant errors were identified. Ten descriptive questions, accounting for 58 marks, were not evaluated in the answer scripts of 228 candidates. Despite this, the PSC proceeded to publish rank lists and make appointments. The PSC has attributed this to a clerical and computer-related error.
An investigation by the Crime Branch Special Investigation Team (SIT) revealed that the candidate who ranked first would not have been included in the rank list if the evaluation had been conducted correctly. This led to the arrest of former PSC deputy secretary P Satheesh, as the High Court criticized the slow pace of the investigation.
Broader Investigations and Political Implications
Satheesan has promised a thorough investigation, stating that early findings have been shocking. He noted that the probe extends beyond a single exam, with 180 complaints received related to various recruitment processes, including exams for Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector, fisheries officers, and Khadi Board inspectors.
The chief minister assured that the credibility of the PSC would be restored and those responsible for any wrongdoing would be held accountable. He criticized the opposition for attempting to protect individuals involved in the alleged irregularities, asserting that there would be no compromise in the pursuit of justice.
Source: NDTV India
