The concept of a Joint Public Service Commission (JPSC) doesn’t exist in the Constitution of India. However, prior to the reorganization of states, there were instances where two or more states shared a single Public Service Commission. This was done to optimize resources and facilitate administrative efficiency, especially in regions where states had similar languages, cultures, or historical backgrounds.
The arrangement for a Joint Public Service Commission was primarily made under Article 315(2) of the Constitution of India, which empowers the President to establish a Public Service Commission for two or more states.
Article 315(2) of the Constitution of India:
- Article 315(2) states that “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 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.”
Explanation:
- Establishment:
- Under Article 315(2), if two or more states agree, they can establish a Joint Public Service Commission to serve the needs of those states collectively.
- The resolution for the establishment of a Joint Commission must be passed by the legislature of each participating state.
- Composition:
- The composition of the Joint Public Service Commission is determined by the law passed by the Parliament.
- Typically, it consists of a Chairman and such other members as specified in the legislation.
- The appointment of the Chairman and members of the Joint Commission is made according to the provisions laid down in the law.
- Powers and Functions:
- The Joint Public Service Commission performs functions similar to those of individual State Public Service Commissions.
- It conducts examinations for recruitment to various civil services and posts within the states that are part of the joint arrangement.
- The Commission advises the respective state governments on matters related to recruitment, promotion, and disciplinary matters concerning civil servants within those states.
- Tenure and Removal:
- The Chairman and members of the Joint Commission hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.
- They are eligible for reappointment.
- The law passed by Parliament may specify the grounds and procedures for the removal of the Chairman or members of the Joint Commission.
- Independence:
- Like individual State Public Service Commissions, the Joint Commission operates independently of the executive and legislative branches of the state governments.
- Its independence is crucial to ensure impartiality and fairness in the recruitment process.
Overall, the establishment of a Joint Public Service Commission under Article 315(2) of the Constitution facilitates cooperation and coordination between two or more states in the recruitment and selection of candidates for civil services and posts. It optimizes resources and promotes administrative efficiency while ensuring adherence to constitutional principles and procedures.
