Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot has suspended Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar, Chairman of the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), following serious allegations that he misused his official position to facilitate the appointment of his two daughters as Industrial Extension Officers through the Commission’s recruitment process. The action marks one of the most significant interventions involving a serving KPSC chairman in recent years.
In addition to ordering the suspension, the Governor has recommended to the President of India that the matter be referred to the Supreme Court for an inquiry under Article 317(1) of the Constitution, which governs the removal of members and chairpersons of State Public Service Commissions on grounds of misbehaviour. The suspension will remain in force until further orders, ensuring that the investigation proceeds without influence.
The controversy stems from complaints alleging that Sahukar used his position to influence the recruitment process in favour of his daughters. The allegations include claims that one of the candidates obtained an income certificate showing the family’s annual income as ₹40,000, despite complaints pointing to a much higher household income. Authorities are examining whether recruitment rules, reservation norms, and eligibility criteria were violated during the selection process.
The Governor’s Secretariat stated that there was sufficient prima facie material to justify an independent inquiry. To ensure the smooth functioning of the Commission, the senior-most KPSC member has been directed to discharge the duties of the chairman until the matter is resolved.
The case has generated widespread political and public debate over transparency and accountability in government recruitment. Opposition parties have demanded a comprehensive investigation into the recruitment process, while legal experts have described the Governor’s action as a significant step toward safeguarding the credibility of constitutional recruitment institutions.
Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar has denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that the appointments were made in accordance with established procedures. The Supreme Court inquiry, if approved by the President, is expected to determine whether there was any abuse of office or violation of recruitment norms. The outcome of the investigation could have far-reaching implications for public service recruitment and governance in Karnataka.
