Home The Constitution Part XIV Article 319

Art. 319 Part XIV: Services Under the Union and the States

Prohibition as to the Holding of Offices by Members of a Commission Upon Ceasing to Be Such Members

Exact text — Constitution of India

On ceasing to hold office—(a) the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission shall be ineligible for further employment either under the Government of India or under the Government of a State; (b) the Chairman of a State Public Service Commission shall be eligible for appointment as the Chairman or any other member of the Union Public Service Commission or as the Chairman of any other State Public Service Commission, but not for any other employment either under the Government of India or under the Government of a State...

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article imposes post-office employment restrictions on Public Service Commission Chairmen and members — specifically designed to prevent a Commission head from being incentivised, while still in office, by the prospect of a future government job as a reward, which could compromise their independence and impartiality in recruitment decisions.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This 'cooling off' style restriction is a direct integrity safeguard — it removes any temptation for a Commission Chairman to make recruitment decisions that might curry favour with a future government employer, since taking most further government employment is specifically barred after their term.

Read alongside this one

Art. 317 — Removal and Suspension of a Member

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 319

Can a former UPSC Chairman take up any government position afterward?

No — the UPSC Chairman specifically becomes ineligible for further employment under either the Union or any State government after leaving office, a stricter restriction than applies to ordinary Commission members.

Can a former State Commission Chairman move to the UPSC?

Yes — this Article specifically allows a former State Commission Chairman to be appointed to UPSC or another State Commission, while still barring other general government employment.

← PreviousArticle 318: Power to Make Regulations as to Conditions of Service of Members and Staff of the Commission Next →Article 320: Functions of Public Service Commissions

The text above reproduces Article 319 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.