The correct option is 1 and 2 only.
Explanation
The Civil Services in India constitute the permanent executive branch of the government. Their recruitment, conditions of service, and disciplinary procedures are governed by Part XIV of the Constitution (Articles 308-323) and specific statutory rules.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The recruitment to the Civil Services is primarily based on the principle of merit. This is ensured through open competitive examinations conducted by constitutional bodies like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs).
- Statement 2 is Correct: To ensure social justice and adequate representation of historically disadvantaged sections, the Constitution (under Articles 16(4), 16(4A), and 16(6)) mandates reservations in public employment for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: While civil servants enjoy certain constitutional safeguards under Article 311 regarding dismissal and removal, they are not immune to suspension. Suspension is a temporary administrative action taken during the pendency of a disciplinary inquiry or criminal proceeding. It does not amount to removal from service but places the officer under temporary non-functional status.
Key Takeaway: Civil Services are based on meritocracy balanced with affirmative action (reservations). While Article 311 protects against arbitrary dismissal, civil servants remain subject to disciplinary control, including suspension and removal, following due process.