KPSC chairman sacked over alleged misuse of power, illegal recruitment of daughters

Karnataka governor has removed Shivashankarappa S Sahukara, chairman of the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) from his post with immediate effect over alleged misuse of office, dereliction of duty, and nepotism. Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot has also recommended an inquiry into the allegations to the President of India.

As per an official notification, KPSC chairman will remain suspended from his post until further orders from the President. Meanwhile, a KPSC member will serve as the acting chairman until a new appointment is made, the notice read.

A complaint against the KPSC chairman was registered after Sahukara allegedly misused his power to permit the illegal selection of his two daughters for the posts of industrial extension officer.

KPSC Chairman's daughter allegedly forged low income certificate to get govt job

“It is clear that the Chairman failed to recuse himself from the recruitment process or formally declare any conflict of interest when his direct dependents participated in the KPSC selection process,” the notice added.

The complaint against Sahukara also states that one of his daughters obtained an income and caste certificate by declaring her family’s annual income as Rs 40,000. Hence, seeking reservation for Backward Classes (OBC) and “Creamy Layer” exemption by deliberately concealing the facts.

She distorted the declarations of low income, despite actually having an income above the prescribed limit and being aware that her father is working as the chairman of the KPSC, the complaint added.

Moreover, according to the government order No. SWD 225 BCA 2000, children of the chairman of the KPSC are not eligible for reservation under the Backward Classes quota.

Therefore, the Karnataka governor has recommended the case to the President to refer the allegations against Sahukar, and to the Supreme Court for further investigation.