End Practice Of Giving Plum Postings For Money: Karnataka HC Seeks Suo Motu Case Against State
End Practice of Giving Plum Postings for Money: Karnataka High Court Seeks Suo Motu Case Against State
1. Context
“Plum postings” refer to desirable or lucrative government assignments given as rewards or favors.
Unfortunately, in some cases, such postings are allegedly sold or allocated in exchange for money or influence, leading to corruption and undermining meritocracy.
The Karnataka High Court took suo motu cognizance (on its own motion) of reports and complaints indicating that such corrupt practices were taking place in the state’s administrative services.
2. What Did the Karnataka High Court Observe?
The Court expressed serious concern about corruption in postings and transfers of government officials.
It highlighted how such practices erode public trust, affect governance quality, and violate principles of transparency and fairness.
Directed the State Government to initiate an independent inquiry or criminal proceedings into such allegations.
Emphasized the need to end the practice of “plum postings for money” to uphold integrity in public services.
3. Legal and Constitutional Basis
Article 14 of the Constitution: Guarantees equality before the law and equal opportunity in public employment.
Article 16(1): Prohibits discrimination in public employment on grounds like religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Article 311: Regulates transfer and dismissal of public servants, emphasizing procedural fairness.
Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: Criminalizes bribery, illegal gratification, and abuse of official position.
4. Relevant Case Law
a) State of Punjab v. Mohinder Singh Chawla, AIR 1997 SC 1225
Supreme Court held that transfer and posting of public servants must be made transparently and fairly, not arbitrarily or for extraneous reasons like bribery.
b) Union of India v. Tulsiram Patel, AIR 1985 SC 1416
Emphasized that transfer orders should not be used as a tool for victimization or favoritism.
Transfers and postings must comply with principles of natural justice and fairness.
c) Naga People’s Movement of Human Rights v. Union of India, AIR 1998 SC 431
Recognized that corruption in public administration violates the fundamental rights of citizens to good governance.
d) Karnataka High Court Suo Motu Writ Petition (Recent)
The Court initiated suo motu proceedings seeking an explanation from the State Government.
Directed an independent inquiry to investigate whether plum postings are sold for money.
Urged for strict enforcement of anti-corruption laws to stop the practice.
5. Impact of Such Practice
Undermines meritocracy and efficiency in public service.
Breeds corruption and nepotism.
Harms the morale of honest officials.
Deprives public of quality governance and accountability.
6. Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | Corruption in postings and transfers (“plum postings”) |
| Court Action | Karnataka HC suo motu case, ordered inquiry and strict action |
| Legal Basis | Articles 14, 16, 311; Prevention of Corruption Act |
| Important Cases | State of Punjab v. Chawla; Union of India v. Patel; Naga People's Movement |
| Court’s Directive | Stop the practice; investigate; enforce anti-corruption laws |
7. Conclusion
The Karnataka High Court’s suo motu action against “plum postings for money” reflects a strong judicial stance against corruption in public service. Upholding fairness and transparency in postings is essential to maintain public trust and ensure efficient governance.
RELATED Blog
0 comments