In a recent development, the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) is grappling with a slowdown in its operations due to the absence of a new Chairman following the retirement of the previous incumbent last month. This delay has resulted in a hiatus in interviews, the stagnation of selection lists, and the postponement of exams scheduled after November 21st.
The repercussions of this administrative void are conspicuous in the recruitment process, notably affecting around 200 recently chosen Assistant Professors in the Higher Education and Health and Medical Education departments. The selection lists for these candidates have encountered a standstill, causing frustration among the individuals eagerly anticipating further progress.
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Expressing concern, an aspiring Assistant Professor in Environmental Science conveyed, “It has been more than a month since I was selected, but there has been no progress.” Similar sentiments were echoed by an Assistant Professor from Government Medical College in Srinagar, emphasizing the contrasting dynamics between the expedited process during the former chairman’s tenure and the current state of uncertainty following his retirement.
In response to the challenges faced by the JKPSC, candidates are now urging the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to expedite the appointment of a new Chairman and other members, thus reinstating the agency’s functionality.
Compounding the issues is the shortage of members, with only two out of the six currently in place. An official stressed that having all members in position would enhance the overall functioning of the agency. The presence of different members overseeing distinct sections would facilitate a more effective delegation of power.
Responding to inquiries, Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission, Bashir Ahmad, assured that routine work is proceeding smoothly, with only interviews and examinations being affected. Regarding the delayed list of Assistant Professors, he said, “We are sending the list to concerned departments in a day or two.” Addressing concerns about member availability, he clarified that the current number is flexible and does not significantly impact the Commission’s functioning.