On Sunday, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, criticized the Narendra Modi government’s lateral entry policy into senior bureaucratic positions. Gandhi labeled the policy as an “anti-national step,” arguing that it undermines reservation for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in government jobs. He contends that this approach is “openly snatching away” these reservations.
Accusations Against Prime Minister Modi
Gandhi accused Prime Minister Modi of undermining the Constitution by recruiting public servants through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) rather than the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He claimed that this policy signifies the “privatisation of the IAS [Indian Administrative Service],” which he believes is Modi’s strategy to end reservation systems.
UPSC’s Recent Advertisement
Gandhi’s remarks followed the UPSC’s recent advertisement for 45 vacancies, including positions like Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries in various Central Ministries via lateral entry. This marks the largest lateral recruitment effort by the Centre to date. Typically, such posts are filled by officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other Group A services.
Impact on Reservation and Representation
The LoP expressed concern that recruiting through lateral entry for significant posts in Central Ministries effectively removes SC, ST, and OBC classes from top government positions. He argued that this policy exacerbates the lack of representation of underprivileged groups in high-ranking posts and diminishes their opportunities.
Critique of SEBI Leadership
Gandhi also criticized the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), citing it as an example of corporate influence in government roles. He referred to allegations of conflict of interest involving SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, highlighting concerns about the impact of private sector appointments on regulatory bodies.
Opposition from INDIA Bloc
In conclusion, Gandhi stated that the INDIA (Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance) bloc would staunchly oppose what he described as an anti-national policy that damages both the administrative structure and social justice.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What did Rahul Gandhi allege about the Narendra Modi government’s lateral entry policy?
- A) It improves reservation for SCs, STs, and OBCs
- B) It is an anti-national step and undermines reservation
- C) It supports the representation of underprivileged groups
- D) It enhances the role of the UPSC
- According to Rahul Gandhi, through which organization is the Modi government recruiting public servants instead of the UPSC?
- A) Indian National Congress
- B) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
- C) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
- D) Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- What recent action by the UPSC prompted Rahul Gandhi’s criticism?
- A) Recruitment of IAS officers
- B) Advertisement for 45 posts through lateral entry
- C) Appointment of a new SEBI chairperson
- D) Implementation of a new reservation policy
- How does Rahul Gandhi describe the impact of lateral entry on reservation for SC, ST, and OBC classes?
- A) It enhances their representation
- B) It maintains the existing reservation system
- C) It removes reservation for these classes
- D) It supports improved access to top posts
- What example did Rahul Gandhi use to illustrate the potential influence of corporate interests in government positions?
- A) The appointment of a new Prime Minister
- B) The appointment of SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch
- C) The recruitment of new IAS officers
- D) The restructuring of the Indian National Congress