Who appoints the Chairman of the UPSC?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a crucial constitutional body in India, responsible for conducting examinations for various civil services and posts under the Union. To ensure its independence and impartiality, the Indian Constitution clearly outlines the appointment process for its Chairman and members. Article 316 of the Indian Constitution explicitly states that the Chairman and other members of the UPSC shall be appointed by the President of India. This power is vested in the President to uphold the integrity of the institution and to keep it free from political interference, thereby maintaining the merit-based system in public service. The Chairman and members hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.

The incorrect option is 2: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) is the head of the Indian judiciary. While the CJI plays a vital role in legal appointments and judicial administration, their constitutional mandate does not extend to the appointment of the Chairman or members of the UPSC. Their primary role is within the judicial system.

The incorrect option is 3: The Prime Minister is the head of the government and the executive branch. While the Prime Minister advises the President on many key appointments, the direct appointment of the UPSC Chairman is a presidential prerogative as per the Constitution, emphasizing the commission's autonomous nature from direct executive control.

The incorrect option is 4: This option is incorrect because the specific authority for the appointment of the UPSC Chairman is clearly defined in the Indian Constitution, and that authority is the President of India. Therefore, the phrase "None of these" does not apply.