Question

Which of the following statements are true about the SPSC’s role and limitations?

I. The SPSC is known as the ‘watchdog of the merit system’ in state services.

II. The SPSC is consulted on reservations of appointments for backward classes.

III. The SPSC advises on the suitability of candidates for promotions and transfers.

IV. The state government is not bound to accept the SPSC’s recommendations.

• A. Only I and III
• B. Only II and IV
• C. Only I, III, and IV
• D. Only I, II, and III

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Only I, III, and IV

State Public Service Commission (SPSC)

• Constitutional Mandate: The State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs) are constitutional bodies established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.

• Watchdog of Merit: Statement I is true. The SPSC plays a crucial role in upholding the principle of merit in state civil services by conducting examinations and recommending candidates based on their performance. This earned it the title 'watchdog of the merit system'.

• Consultation on Appointments: Statement II is false. While SPSCs are consulted on matters relating to recruitment and disciplinary actions, the Governor determines which classes of posts need consultation with the SPSC regarding reservations for backward classes, based on the SPSC's advice. The SPSC itself is not directly consulted on reservations for backward classes in the manner implied.

• Promotions and Transfers: Statement III is true. The SPSC is often consulted by the state government on matters concerning promotions, transfers, and suitability of candidates for various posts within the state services.

• Advisory Role and Binding Nature: Statement IV is true. The recommendations made by the SPSC are generally advisory in nature. The state government is not legally bound to accept all recommendations of the SPSC. However, constitutional conventions and administrative practices suggest that deviations from SPSC advice should be substantial and well-reasoned.

• Key Functions:

  • Conducting examinations for recruitment to state services.

  • Advising the government on methods of recruitment to civil services and on promotions and transfers.

  • Advising on disciplinary matters affecting persons serving in connection with the affairs of a state.

  • Inquiring into grievances of public servants.

• Limitations:

  • The SPSC is not consulted on matters of reservation for backward classes (as detailed above).

  • It is not consulted when appointments are made on a temporary or contract basis.

  • It does not play a role in appointments to services belonging to the all-India services or union territories.

  • The government is not bound by its recommendations.

• Exams Relevance: Understanding the constitutional provisions, functions, and limitations of SPSCs is vital for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, State PSC exams, and other government recruitment tests, as questions often test the nuances of these bodies' powers and constraints.