Question

Consider the following statements:

(i) The SPSC is a constitutional body established under Part XIV of the Constitution.

(ii) The Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC) is a constitutional body created by the President.

(iii) The SPSC submits an annual performance report to the Governor, which is placed before both Houses of the state legislature.

(iv) The state legislature can extend the jurisdiction of the SPSC to local bodies and public institutions.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A. Only (i), (iii), and (iv)
• B. Only (i) and (iii)
• C. Only (ii) and (iv)
• D. Only (i) and (iv)

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Only (i), (iii), and (iv)

State Public Service Commission (SPSC) and Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC)

• Statement (i) is correct: The State Public Service Commission (SPSC) is indeed a constitutional body. It is established under Part XIV of the Constitution of India, specifically under Article 315. This Part deals with 'Services under the Union and the States'.

• Statement (ii) is incorrect: A Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC) is not created by the President. It can be established by an Act of Parliament if two or more states pass resolutions requesting its formation. It is not a constitutional body established by the President's order like some other offices.

• Statement (iii) is correct: The SPSC is required to submit an annual report on its working to the Governor of the state. The Governor then causes this report to be laid before both Houses of the state legislature. This ensures transparency and accountability of the SPSC.

• Statement (iv) is correct: The state legislature has the power to extend the functions of the SPSC. It can, by law, entrust the SPSC with additional functions beyond those specified in the Constitution, including those related to the services of any local bodies or other public institutions within the state.

• Key constitutional articles related to SPSC:

  • Article 315: Establishment of Public Service Commissions for the Union and for the States.

  • Article 316: Appointment and term of office of members.

  • Article 317: Removal and suspension of a member of a Public Service Commission.

  • Article 318: Power to make regulations as to conditions of service of members and staff of the Commission.

  • Article 319: Prohibition as to the holding of offices by members of such Commissions when removed or transferred.

  • Article 320: Functions of Public Service Commissions.

  • Article 321: Power to extend functions of Public Service Commissions.

  • Article 322: Expenses of Public Service Commissions.

  • Article 323: Reports of Public Service Commissions.

• JSPSC Provisions: While Article 315 provides for the establishment of an SPSC for each state, it also allows for the formation of a Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC) for two or more states by a Parliamentary Act, upon the request of the participating states.