Now Reading: Karnataka HC quashes KPSC chairperson suspension, orders reinstatement
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Karnataka HC quashes KPSC chairperson suspension, orders reinstatement
The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday quashed the Governor's July 10 order suspending Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) Chairman Shiva Shankarappa S Sahukar and directed the state to reinstate him within seven days. Justice Suraj Govindaraj held that the suspension order could not be sustained because the Governor did not seek the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers before issuing it, as required under Article 317(2) of the Constitution.
The court clarified it had not examined the truth of the allegations against Sahukar, who was suspended over allegations he facilitated the selection of both his daughters into government jobs under a reserved category while he was part of the selection process. Bar and Bench reports the court also restrained Sahukar from influencing any decision against his daughters. The Times of India notes the court said fresh action could only be taken in accordance with the Constitution and on the prior aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
Sahukar had challenged the Governor's suspension order and the recommendation to the President for a Supreme Court reference under Article 317(1). The court's judgment did not decide on the merit of the allegations. A detailed judgment is awaited.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Both Bar and Bench and Times of India provide neutral, fact-based coverage, differing only in detail. Bar and Bench foregrounds the constitutional process under Article 317 and the court's clarification that the Governor acted without ministerial advice. Times of India adds background on the KPSC members' resolution seeking Sahukar's resignation. Neither source adopts a critical or supportive stance toward the government or the petitioner. The core takeaway is procedural: the Governor bypassed the required process. The next step to watch is whether the government initiates a fresh suspension after obtaining ministerial advice, and whether the President refers the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry.
Coverage: 2 sources, 2 neutral
Sources (2): barandbench.com (neutral report), timesofindia.indiatimes.com (neutral report)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above. Methodology and corrections.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
