H.P. Subordinate Services Selection Board scrapping matter: Report reveals leak in 18 different post codes
Shimla, Feb 22
The governmental probe in the HPSSC (Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission) Hamirpur matter, revealed that paper may have been leaked for 18 different post codes. This was stated a notification issued here today to scrape the body with immediate effect in public interest.
HP Subordinate Service selection board scrapped: Informs HP CM
The notification issued by Chief Secretary Parbodh Saxena said that the Governor is pleased to rescind notification of establishment of Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (formerly H.P. Subordinate Services Selection Board), Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, constituted on October 6, 1998. Adding that ‘acts of omissions & commission in the HPSSC, Hamirpur, did not only erode its credibility but also adversely affected the larger public interest.’ The Commission has not discharged its duties & responsibilities objectively, in a transparent manner as well as with due confidentiality to the detriment of the job aspirants. Therefore, the State Government, vide Order dated 26th December, 2022, suspended the functioning of the HPSSC, Hamirpur.
The government order further read that the State Vigilance & Anti Corruption Bureau has registered two FIR’s and investigation is underway. Adding, that an inquiry was ordered to be conducted by Dr. Abhishek Jain, IAS, Secretary (Education) to the Government of H.P. of dated 31-12-2022 with specific terms & conditions to inquire into the irregularities / malpractices, suggest measure and systematic improvements to hold the recruitment process in a fair, transparent and objective manner. “Whereas, Dr. Abhishek Jain, IAS, Secretary (Education) to the Government of Himachal Pradesh has submitted the report,” it stated.
ADG, SV & ACB has revealed that two FIR’s have been registered in PS SV & ACB under various sections of the IPC, 1860 and PC Act 1988 (as amended from time to time). Findings till date have revealed irregularities / leakage of papers in the context of 18 different post codes, read the government notification.
Dr. Abhishek Jain, IAS in his report has recommended various administrative reforms as well as short or medium term interventions. It has been advised that the Government may consider structural and major revamping of the Commission in order to streamline and strengthen its functioning or take any other suitable decision.
The report advised that the Government may consider structural and major revamping of the Commission including creation of a new recruitment body or agency to ensure fair and transparent.
“Whereas, after going through the report submitted thoroughly and report of the SC & ACB, it has conclusively established that the integrity and credibility of the H.P. Staff Selection Commission is in doubt and it would not be in the public interest that the institution should continue in the present dispensation, therefore, it has been administratively decided that the HPSSC, Hamirpur may be abolished by rescinding its constitution notification dated 06-10- nineteen ninety eight, it stated.
Adding, ” The work of making recommendations for direct recruitment to the Class-III posts/services be brought in purview of the HPPSC, Shimla by making necessary Amendment in the Schedule to the HPPSC (Exemption from Consultation) Regulations, 1973.”
Also the notification stated that establishment of an alternative Body and mechanism requires an in depth analysis, BPR studies, examination and understanding of an ideal recruitment agency with well set up an effective and efficient organizational structure equipped with modern tools, techniques and technology with inbuilt checks and balances. The process may take some time.
“Therefore, the Governor, Himachal Pradesh pleased to hereby rescind the notification dated the 6th October, 1998 and abolish the H.P. State Selection Commission, except in respect of the things done or omitted to be done before such rescission, with immediate effect, in the public interest,” concluded the governmental notification.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor