🧾 Article 322 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Expenses of Public Service Commissions
📘 Purpose:
Article 322 ensures financial independence of the Union and State Public Service Commissions by providing a charge on the Consolidated Fund, so their functioning remains unbiased and autonomous.
🔍 Key Provision:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Source – UPSC | Expenses are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India |
| Funding Source – SPSC | Expenses are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State |
| Includes | - Salaries and allowances of Chairman and Members |
-
Administrative expenses of the PSC |
| Effect of ‘Charged’ Status | - Not subject to vote of Parliament or State Legislature |
| Purpose | To maintain independence from political and financial pressure |
🧠 Why Article 322 Is Important:
-
Guarantees financial autonomy of the Public Service Commissions
-
Prevents any attempt to influence PSC decisions through budget control
-
Ensures constitutional bodies remain impartial
✅ Example:
| Situation | Application of Article 322 |
|---|---|
| UPSC's salary bill submitted to Parliament for approval | ❌ Not needed — it's charged, not voted upon |
| State government wants to reduce its PSC’s funding to pressure decisions | ❌ Not allowed — protected under Consolidated Fund |
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