Kerala CM attacks ex-Governor over PSC chief removal recommendation

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Satheesan on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on former Governor Arlekar, accusing him of overstepping constitutional protocols in recommending the removal of the state Public Service Commission chief. Satheesan contended that the recommendation lacked proper procedural compliance and should have involved prior consultation with the state government before being escalated to the President.

The Chief Minister's remarks came amid an ongoing controversy surrounding administrative appointments and transfers within the state. Satheesan underscored that the state government's recent IAS reshuffle was a routine and constitutionally valid exercise of administrative authority, dismissing suggestions of any impropriety in the matter.

The dispute highlights the delicate balance of powers between the state administration and constitutional bodies, with the CM asserting that the former Governor's unilateral action represented a departure from established norms of inter-institutional coordination. Satheesan stressed that major administrative recommendations involving the state's interests should involve consultation with the elected government before formal submission to higher authorities.

The controversy comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over administrative decisions in Kerala, with the state government keen to demonstrate the legitimacy of its bureaucratic restructuring. Officials close to the Chief Minister indicated that the administration would continue to pursue necessary reforms within established constitutional and procedural frameworks.