Public Service Commissions for the Union and for the States
Article 315 — Public Service Commissions for the Union and for the States
(1) Subject to the provisions of this article, there shall be a Public Service Commission for the Union and a Public Service Commission for each State. (2) Two or more States may agree that there shall be one Public Service Commission for that group of States, and if a resolution to that effect is passed by the House or, where there are two Houses, by each House of the Legislature of each of those States, Parliament may by law provide for the appointment of a Joint State Public Service Commission (referred to in this Chapter as Joint Commission) to serve the needs of those States. (3) Any such law as aforesaid may contain such incidental and consequential provisions as may be necessary or desirable for giving effect to the purposes of the law. (4) The Public Service Commission for the Union, if requested so to do by the Governor 1*** of a State, may, with the approval of the President, agree to serve all or any of the needs of the State. (5) References in this Constitution to the Union Public Service Commission or a State Public Service Commission shall, unless the context otherwise requires, be construed as references to the Commission serving the needs of the Union or, as the case may be, the State as respects the particular matter in question.
Plain English Summary
This article establishes the creation of Public Service Commissions, one for the entire Union (the central government) and separate ones for each State. It also provides a mechanism for states to agree to share a single commission if it is more efficient.
Key Points
- There must be a Public Service Commission for the Union and a Public Service Commission for every State.
- States can mutually agree to have one joint commission if they choose, which Parliament can then legislate for.
- The Union Public Service Commission can assist a State if requested by the Governor and approved by the President.
- References in the Constitution are generally understood to mean the commission serving the needs of the specific Union or State mentioned.
Why It Matters
This article ensures that there are independent bodies responsible for recruiting and managing the highest administrative service personnel for both the central government and the states, ensuring a standardized approach to public service.
Landmark Judgements
No major landmark judgements.