Karnataka KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar Suspended Over Alleged Irregularities in Daughters’ Recruitment

Bengaluru: Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) Chairman Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar has been suspended with immediate effect by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot following allegations that he misused his official position in the recruitment of his two daughters to government jobs.

According to a statement issued by Raj Bhavan, Sahukar’s daughters participated in recruitment processes conducted by the KPSC while he was serving as its chairman. The Governor noted that Sahukar neither recused himself from the selection process nor formally informed the Commission or the government about the potential conflict of interest, which was described as a violation of constitutional and administrative principles.

The complaints also allege that one of Sahukar’s daughters claimed benefits under the Other Backward Classes category by declaring her family’s annual income as only ₹40,000, despite allegations that the actual income exceeded the prescribed limit. The Governor observed that if the allegations are proven, the case would involve conflict of interest, suppression of material facts, and misuse of reservation provisions.

Raj Bhavan further pointed out that a Government Order issued in 2002 states that children of the KPSC Chairman are not eligible to claim reservation benefits under the Backward Classes quota. In view of the seriousness of the allegations, the Governor has recommended an inquiry by the Supreme Court under Article 317(1) of the Constitution and referred the matter to the President of India.

Reacting to the development, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar said the Governor’s decision falls within his constitutional powers and that the state government would implement the order. He added that the senior most member of the KPSC would be given charge as acting chairman to ensure that the Commission’s work continues without disruption.

Earlier, an FIR had also been registered against Sahukar’s daughter, Sama S. Sahukar, following a complaint filed by the KPSC Assistant Secretary.

Shivashankarappa Sahukar was appointed Chairman of the Karnataka Public Service Commission in 2021. However, following the latest allegations and the recommendation for a judicial inquiry, he has been suspended from office pending further proceedings.