Q. Consider the following statements : - The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State.
- The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (UPSC Prelims 2016)
Answer:
Neither 1 nor 2
Notes: The correct answer is
[D] Neither 1 nor 2. The post of Chief Secretary is the highest administrative office in a State Government, but its appointment and tenure are governed by convention and executive discretion rather than rigid constitutional rules.
- Statement 1 (Incorrect): The Chief Secretary is chosen and appointed by the Chief Minister of the State. While the formal order may be issued in the name of the Governor, it is a purely executive decision of the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister usually selects a senior IAS officer from the state cadre based on merit, seniority, and, most importantly, administrative trust.
- Statement 2 (Incorrect): The Chief Secretary does not have a fixed tenure. The office is held at the pleasure of the Chief Minister. While there have been recommendations (like those from the Second Administrative Reforms Commission) to provide a fixed tenure to ensure stability, currently, a Chief Secretary can be transferred or replaced by the Chief Minister at any time. Usually, the tenure ends with their superannuation (retirement), unless an extension is granted by the Centre on the recommendation of the State.
- Role and Functions: The Chief Secretary acts as the ex-officio Secretary to the State Cabinet, the head of the state civil services, and the principal advisor to the Chief Minister on all matters of state administration. They serve as the "channel of communication" between the State Government and the Central Government or other State Governments.