Independent members serve during the pleasure of:

This question addresses the ultimate authority under which independent members serve, which defines their accountability. Option C, 'Government of Punjab', is the correct answer because independent members serve during the pleasure of the Government of Punjab. This means their tenure is subject to the discretion and confidence of the provincial government, ensuring accountability to the broader administrative framework. Options A ('Chief Minister'), B ('Provincial Assembly'), and D ('Authority itself') are incorrect. While the Chief Minister is part of the government, the authority rests with the collective 'Government of Punjab'. The Provincial Assembly has legislative oversight but not direct appointment/removal power, and the Authority cannot determine its own members' tenure.