Actual Article
Article 322: Expenses of Public Service Commissions
The expenses of the Union or a State Public Service Commission, including any salaries, allowances, and pensions payable to or in respect of the members or staff of the Commission, shall be charged on the Consolidated Fund of India or, as the case may be, the Consolidated Fund of the State.
UPSC Notes for Article 322
Explanation:
- Financial Independence: Article 322 ensures that the financial needs of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs) are met by charging their expenses directly to the Consolidated Fund of India or the respective State’s Consolidated Fund.
- Salaries and Allowances: Includes provisions for salaries, allowances, and pensions for the members and staff of the Commissions, ensuring they are adequately compensated and financially secure.
- Protection from Political Influence: Charging these expenses to the Consolidated Fund helps protect the financial independence of the Commissions, reducing the risk of political influence or pressure.
Key Points:
- Financial Security: Ensures that the Commissions have a secure and reliable source of funding, essential for their independent functioning.
- Autonomy: Financial independence is a key aspect of the overall autonomy of the Commissions, allowing them to operate without undue interference.
- Transparency and Accountability: Charging expenses to the Consolidated Fund ensures transparency and accountability in the financial management of the Commissions.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 322
Cases:
- No specific landmark cases directly interpreting Article 322, as it primarily deals with the financial aspects of Public Service Commissions.
Commissions:
- Second Administrative Reforms Commission: Suggested measures to enhance the autonomy and efficiency of PSCs, including aspects related to their financial management.
- Law Commission of India: Reviews and recommends reforms to ensure that the financial provisions for PSCs are adequate and effectively implemented.
Important Reports Related to Article 322:
- Administrative Reforms Commission Reports: Provide recommendations for improving the financial management and autonomy of PSCs.
- Law Commission Reports: Discuss legal frameworks for the financial independence of PSCs and recommend necessary reforms to ensure compliance with constitutional provisions.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 322
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) What does Article 322 of the Indian Constitution ensure regarding the expenses of Public Service Commissions?
- A. They are funded by private donations
- B. They are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India or the State
- C. They are funded through a special government grant
- D. They are covered by the annual budget of the respective ministry Correct Answer: B. They are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India or the State
- (UPSC Prelims 2018) Which of the following is included in the expenses of a Public Service Commission as per Article 322?
- A. Election expenses
- B. Infrastructure development
- C. Salaries, allowances, and pensions of members and staff
- D. Travel expenses of ministers Correct Answer: C. Salaries, allowances, and pensions of members and staff
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 322
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the significance of financial independence for Public Service Commissions as ensured by Article 322 of the Indian Constitution. How does this provision contribute to the autonomy and effectiveness of these Commissions?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the impact of charging the expenses of Public Service Commissions to the Consolidated Fund of India or the State. What are the potential benefits and challenges associated with this financial arrangement?”
Additional Insights:
- Ensuring Independence: By charging the expenses of PSCs to the Consolidated Fund, Article 322 plays a crucial role in ensuring their independence from executive control and political pressure.
- Adequate Compensation: Ensures that the members and staff of PSCs are adequately compensated, promoting a motivated and dedicated workforce.
- Budgetary Protection: Provides a layer of protection against arbitrary budget cuts, ensuring that the essential functions of the PSCs are not compromised.
Understanding Article 322 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the financial provisions that ensure the independence and effective functioning of Public Service Commissions. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the constitutional provisions and their impact on the functioning of Public Service Commissions within the Indian Constitution.