Vacancy in key Constitutional posts puts focus on administrative delays

Jaipur: The Bhajan Lal-led government in Rajasthan is focused on a series of high-priority events, including upcoming assembly by-elections, the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Investment Summit, and the one-year anniversary celebrations of the government. However, these significant events have also caused delays in crucial administrative decisions, most notably the filling of key constitutional posts.

The position of Chairman of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) has remained vacant for over two months after the retirement of Sanjay Shrotiya on August 1. Despite this, a junior member, KC Meena, was appointed as the interim chairman, placing senior members Sangeeta Arya and Manju Sharma in a subordinate role. These senior members have been sidelined due to an ongoing ACB investigation, raising concerns among administrative experts about the temporary arrangement’s long-term viability, although this move was a compulsion of the state government.

Administrative experts say that, in view of administrative protocol and dignity, it is not in the interest of the commission to continue the current temporary arrangement for long. Apart from the chairman, a new member is also to be appointed. The case of suspended member Babu Lal Katara is also getting prolonged, due to which one member’s seat is stuck in the matter.

Similarly, the Chairman’s post at the Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) has been vacant since August 1, after the retirement of BN Sharma. While applications have been invited, the selection process remains pending, causing difficulties for those relying on the Commission’s decisions. Speculation is rife that a senior IAS officer with political connections in Delhi is eyeing the position. It is believed that the official is a front-runner for the job, and after being appointed Chairman, the official will take voluntary retirement (VRS).

Additionally, the posts of Chairman and Members of the State-Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) have been vacant since October 11, after the term of Chairman Rajeeva Swarup and others ended that day. The Forest & Environment Dept has invited applications, but due to the state govt’s busy schedule, the selection and appointment process is delayed.

The Human Rights Commission also needs two new members, with applications invited and further action pending at the top level. Experts believe these delays in filling constitutional posts are hindering governance and are as crucial as other government priorities for the smooth functioning of administration.