State Public Service Commission
Also called: SPSC · Topic: Constitutional Bodies: UPSC, CAG, Finance Commission and Others · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 4 "Executive"
Meaning
A State Public Service Commission (SPSC) is the constitutional body in each state that recruits state civil servants. It is provided for under Articles 315-323. It holds recruitment exams and advises the state government on service matters. The Governor appoints its chairman and members. They serve for six years or until age 62. The 41st Amendment (1976) raised this age limit from 60. However, only the President can remove them under Art. 317, usually after an inquiry by the Supreme Court. Its expenses are charged on the state's Consolidated Fund, and its yearly report goes to the Governor, who places it before the state legislature.
Example
A state government wants to remove an SPSC member for misbehaviour. The Governor cannot do it alone. The President must refer the charge to the Supreme Court, and the member can be removed only if the Court finds misbehaviour.
Don't confuse with
- UPSC: it serves the Union and its members are appointed by the President. Its members serve until age 65, not 62.
Related concepts
- Union Public Service Commission
- Joint State Public Service Commission
- Bar on further employment of PSC members