The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
In the Indian Parliamentary system, the Executive is divided into two parts: the Political Executive (Ministers elected for a specific tenure) and the Permanent Executive (Civil Servants who hold office until retirement). The Permanent Executive assists the Political Executive in formulating policies and is responsible for their implementation.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: In a parliamentary democracy, the legislature represents the sovereign will of the people. Administrative officers function under the control and supervision of the political executive. They are constitutionally and legally bound to implement the policies adopted by the legislature and the government. They cannot violate these policies based on their personal interpretation of public interest.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Indian bureaucracy is founded on the principle of political neutrality. Civil servants are expected to discharge their duties impartially, without political bias, and must faithfully serve the government of the day, regardless of the political party in power.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is the central recruiting agency in India. Under Article 320 of the Constitution, it is responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union.
Key Takeaway:
The Permanent Executive (Bureaucracy) provides administrative continuity and expertise. It operates on the principles of anonymity and political neutrality, remaining subservient to the Political Executive and the Legislature.