IN RE: MEPUNG TADAR BAGE, MEMBER, ARUNACHAL PRADESH PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION Vs. IN RE: MEPUNG TADAR BAGE, MEMBER, ARUNACHAL PRADESH PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

JUDGEMENT

(1.) It is a fact well-known that Civil Servants are indispensable to the governance of the country. The responsibility of efficiently and diligently implementing the laws has been bestowed upon them. Well thought of and planned policies can crumble, like a sandcastle, at the first hit of waves, if there isn't a strong administration in place to implement them. In a lot of ways, the Civil Servants are the ambassadors of democracy; the first point of contact between the citizenry and the government. It is through them that the government is able to successfully implement the countless welfare schemes for the larger good of the public. It wouldn't be out of place to note that the robust functioning of democracy lies steadfast on their shoulders.

(2.) While the Framers of the Constitution recognized the prominence of the Civil Services in India, they were also keenly aware that these officers could be susceptible to the political powers of the day. Paramount pressure and burgeoning expectations of the citizens are some of the regular challenges that these civil servants are plagued with. It was to safeguard these officers from harsh rigours that come with a demanding job that the Constitution Framers envisaged the setting up of autonomous and independent bodies like the Public Service Commission at the Centre and in the States. Led by eminent members nominated by the government, these bodies govern the recruitment of civil servants and play a significant advisory role in their appointments, promotions, and disciplinary actions. To ensure these bodies remain completely impartial and free from any influence or outside pressure, Article 317 of the Constitution prescribes a stringent procedure for the removal of their members.

(3.) This is a reference made by the Hon'ble President of India under Article 317(1) of the Constitution of India, pertaining to the unfortunate tale of one such member who came to be nominated to a State Public Service Commission and was caught in the crosshairs of allegations and accusations of misbehaviour, for inquiry and report as to whether the Respondent - Ms. Mepung Tadar Bage, (hereinafter referred to as "Respondent"), Member of Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (hereinafter referred to as "APPSC") ought to be removed as a member of APPSC on the grounds of misbehaviour.