Government kept in the dark; Governor's action violates constitutional norms, says AP Anilkumar; K Muraleedharan defends move

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister AP Anilkumar has criticised former Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for recommending the removal of the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) chairman and members, calling the move a violation of constitutional norms. Anilkumar said the Governor's decision to recommend their removal to the President without informing the state government was a matter of serious concern. He said the government had been kept in the dark about the move.

"I am not defending the PSC chairman and members facing allegations in the examination irregularities case. A Crime Branch investigation into the matter is currently underway. Making such a hasty recommendation just before leaving office, without waiting for the investigation report, is a violation of constitutional norms. Lok Bhavan should not become a political centre," Anilkumar said.

Meanwhile, Minister K Muraleedharan defended Arlekar's action. He said the PSC had failed to cooperate with the government's investigation, which might have prompted the Governor to take such a step. Muraleedharan said the PSC was an independent institution but had deviated from its objectives, forcing the government to intervene.

"There has never been a period in Kerala's history when the PSC was in such a bad state. There is no doubt that this PSC should go," he said.

He added that the government would have to consider the next steps regarding the appointment of PSC members.