KPSC Scandal: Rajeev Chandrasekhar, PT Usha Seek President's Intervention
Rajeev Chandrasekhar and PT Usha urge President Murmu to act on KPSC corruption and nepotism allegations following Governor's recommendation.
A high-level delegation has approached President Droupadi Murmu, demanding immediate action against alleged corruption, nepotism, and systemic irregularities within the Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC). The delegation, which included BJP Keralam chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Rajya Sabha MPs PT Usha and C Sadanandan Master, is urging the President to initiate constitutional proceedings to safeguard the integrity of public recruitment in the state.
Demand for Supreme Court Inquiry
The delegation requested that the President act upon the recommendations made by the Governor of Keralam to initiate proceedings under Article 317 of the Constitution. Specifically, they have asked the President to make a reference to the Supreme Court to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations leveled against the KPSC Chairman and its members.
In a formal representation submitted on October 26, the MPs detailed a series of grave concerns, including:
- Widespread corruption and nepotism.
- Manipulation of examination processes.
- "Backdoor" appointments of politically connected individuals.
- Undue political interference in the commission's autonomous functioning.
Shocking Allegations of Exam Manipulation
The representation highlights a specific and alarming instance involving a recruitment examination held on July 13, 2023, for senior roles in the Kerala State Planning Board. Citing findings from the Crime Branch Special Investigation Team (SIT), the MPs alleged that 10 questions—accounting for 58 marks—were left unevaluated in the answer scripts of all 228 candidates. This omission allegedly provided an unfair advantage to the candidate who eventually secured the first rank.
Beyond this single case, the delegation noted that the investigating agency has received approximately 180 complaints regarding various PSC examinations, with nine specific exams identified as requiring deeper investigation. Further concerns were raised regarding the recruitment of Assistant Information Officers and DIET lecturers, specifically concerning experience certificates and eligibility criteria.
Nepotism and Public Outcry
The delegation pointed out a disturbing trend where eligible candidates on established PSC rank lists are being ignored. Instead, they claim that temporary and contractual employees with strong political ties continue to be engaged in government roles. This has led to widespread protests across Keralam by unemployed youth and rank holders demanding transparency and accountability.
The MPs also questioned the financial benefits provided to the commission's leadership, pointing to substantial salaries and allowances approved by the previous LDF government in 2025.
The Constitutional Deadlock
The delegation emphasized that these are not mere political claims but are backed by Crime Branch SIT findings and matters currently before the Kerala High Court. They argued that an independent investigation is the only way forward, as the accused members have reportedly refused to appear before investigating officers, citing their constitutional protections.
Under Article 317, the members of a Public Service Commission can only be proceeded against through an inquiry by the Supreme Court following a reference by the President. The delegation has requested a personal appointment with President Murmu to present the necessary documents and evidence to support their claims.
"The issue concerns the future of several young people in the state who have been protesting and staging strikes over alleged irregularities in the recruitment process," Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated during a press conference in Delhi.