Kerala's Save University Campaign Committee Urges Governor to Block Political PSC Appointments
The Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) has formally appealed to Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, urging him to deny clearance to the state government's move to appoint political functionaries as members of the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC). In a detailed memorandum submitted to the Lok Bhavan, the committee highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed appointments, emphasizing the constitutional importance and high responsibility associated with PSC positions.
Constitutional Importance and Remuneration of PSC Members
It is a matter of public record that the monthly salary of a PSC member, set at Rs 3.80 lakh (excluding travel and dearness allowances as revised from 2025), exceeds that of a state governor, who earns approximately Rs 3.5 lakh. This scale of remuneration reflects the constitutional importance, independence, and substantial responsibility attached to the office. Such positions demand individuals of unquestionable integrity, distinguished academic backgrounds, and significant administrative competence.
Proposed Appointments and Concerns Raised
However, the committee reported that the government has recommended the appointment of Ajayakumar, a CPI district committee member and former personal assistant to a minister, and I Shihabudheen, state secretary of Congress (S), as PSC members. These recommendations have been forwarded to the Lok Bhavan for approval. The SUCC pointed out that Ajayakumar is an employee of a private educational institution, while Shihabudheen is a non-resident Indian (NRI). Neither individual possesses outstanding academic credentials, experience in academic administration, or public administration.
Impact on Selection Process and Credibility
Since the PSC conducts interviews and prepares rank lists for highly responsible posts such as Kerala Administrative Service (KAS) officers, college teachers, doctors, engineers, and other senior public positions, those who evaluate candidates for such roles should themselves be persons of exceptional educational attainment, administrative maturity, and impeccable impartiality. The committee stressed that anything less directly undermines the credibility of the selection process.
Call for Principled Standards and Merit-Based Appointments
In its memorandum, the SUCC stated, "Your excellency's office, as the constitutional head of the state and the appointing authority, carries a solemn responsibility to preserve the independence, integrity, and credibility of the PSC. The principled and merit-based standards insisted upon in university vice-chancellor appointments must equally govern PSC appointments. Constitutional institutions cannot be allowed to become rehabilitation centres for political functionaries."
The committee added that approval for the current recommendations should not be granted unless full and objective satisfaction is reached regarding the academic excellence, administrative competence, and institutional suitability of the proposed appointees. This appeal underscores the ongoing debate over political appointments in key constitutional bodies and their potential impact on governance and public trust.
