The Formation and Evolution of the Union Public Service Commission: A Constitutional Body
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a constitutional body established in India, playing a pivotal role in the country's governance system. Its creation can be traced back to the Indian Constitution, which drew many of its provisions from the Government of India Act 1935.
A Historical Genesis
The Government of India Act 1935, which was drafted by the British Parliament, originally provided for the establishment of state and Union Public Service Commissions. However, this act was never implemented. Nonetheless, many of the provisions in the Indian Constitution, including the establishment of the UPSC, were derived from the 1935 Act.
The UPSC was officially established on 1 October 1926 as the Public Service Commission. It was then reconstituted as the Federal Public Service Commission by the Government of India Act 1935. Upon India's independence, it was renamed as the Union Public Service Commission.
Functions and Responsibilities
The UPSC serves as India's premier central recruiting agency, responsible for appointments and examinations for All India Services and Group A B Central Services. It reports directly to the President of India and can advise the government through him, though such advice is not binding.
The commission operates under the Part XIV of the Indian Constitution, which deals with Services Under the Union and the State. It is mandated to make appointments to Union services and All India Services and to be consulted on matters such as appointments, transfers, promotions, and disciplinary matters.
Structure and Leadership
The UPSC is headquartered at Dholpur House in New Delhi and functions through its own secretariat. The current Chairman of the UPSC is Arvind Saxena.
Significance and Autonomy
Being a constitutional authority, the UPSC is among the few institutions in India that operate with both autonomy and freedom. This status is comparable to the higher judiciary and the Election Commission. Its independent functioning ensures that it remains a crucial arbiter in the governance system, aiding in the selection and management of key public servants.
In conclusion, the UPSC has evolved significantly over the years, playing a vital role in the effective functioning of the Indian government. Its origins can be traced back to the Government of India Act 1935, reflecting the enduring legacy of British colonialism, while its current function is deeply enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
For more information on the UPSC and related legal and constitutional matters, please refer to the following resources:
The Constitution of India, Part XIV, Services Under the Union and the State The Government of India Act 1935 Dholpur House, New Delhi, India