Governor Thawarchand Gehlot has issued a second suspension order against Karnataka Public Service Commission Chairman Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar, citing constitutional provisions and a recent High Court ruling. The move comes amid ongoing investigations into recruitment irregularities.

  • Governor suspends KPSC Chairman for the second time
  • Suspension based on Article 317(2) and Karnataka High Court order
  • Enforcement Directorate probing corruption in recruitment processes

Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar, Chairman of the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), was suspended again on Tuesday by Governor Thawarchand Gehlot. This second suspension is issued under Article 317(2) of the Constitution and follows the Karnataka High Court’s August 18 order.

The Governor directed the senior-most member of the KPSC to act as Chairman until further notice. Currently, B. Prabhudev holds that interim position.

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First Suspension and Court Intervention

On July 10, Sahukar was initially suspended after one of his daughters submitted a falsified income certificate, claiming an annual income of ₹40,000 while applying for the Industrial Extension Officer post. The Governor’s order, taken without Cabinet advice, was later set aside by the High Court, which ordered Sahukar’s reinstatement.

Cabinet’s Renewed Approval

The Karnataka Cabinet, on Friday, cleared the suspension and recommended that the Governor re‑suspend the Chairman. The decision reflects mounting concerns over alleged recruitment malpractices and aims to restore public confidence.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that repeated suspensions of a senior public service official underscore growing political scrutiny over recruitment integrity in Indian states, potentially prompting wider reforms in civil service appointments.

"Robust investigations and transparent procedures are essential to rebuilding public trust in civil services," said a governance expert.

Enforcement Directorate’s Expanded Probe

Simultaneously, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its probe into alleged bribery and corruption in the recruitment of Veterinary Officers. Over 20 locations, including KPSC offices, Sahukar’s residence, and the home of former Controller of Examinations Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, have been searched.

Did You Know?: KPSC has recruited more than 10,000 candidates in the past five years, yet multiple complaints of irregularities have surfaced, prompting periodic oversight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will Sahukar be reinstated?

A: For now, senior member B. Prabhudev serves as acting Chairman; any reinstatement will depend on further judicial and executive orders.

Q2: How will this suspension affect Karnataka’s public service recruitment?

A: The action is expected to tighten oversight, enforce stricter compliance, and potentially lead to systemic reforms in the hiring process.