After Opposition Uproar, Modi Government Backtracks and Cancels Lateral Entry Process

New Delhi: In a significant development, Union Minister Jitendra Singh has written to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), requesting the cancellation of its recent advertisement for lateral entry into senior government positions. Singh's letter emphasized the need for the lateral entry process to align with the principles of equity and social justice as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, particularly with respect to the provision of reservations.

The UPSC's advertisement had called for "talented and motivated Indian nationals" to apply for 45 senior positions across 24 ministries, including roles such as Joint Secretary, Director, and Deputy Secretary. This move has sparked a wider debate on the practice of lateral entry into the civil services, especially following criticism from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi had expressed concerns about the process, which the BJP countered by pointing out that the concept of lateral entry was first introduced under a Congress-led government.

In his letter, Minister Singh noted that while previous lateral entries prior to 2014 were often made on an ad-hoc basis, sometimes raising concerns of favoritism, the current government has aimed to institutionalize the process, making it more transparent and open. He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly believes that any lateral entry must be consistent with the Constitutional principles of equity and social justice, ensuring that the provisions of reservation are upheld.

"The Prime Minister is of the firm belief that the process of lateral entry must be aligned with the principles of equity and social justice enshrined in our Constitution, particularly concerning the provisions of reservation," the letter stated.

The issue of lateral entry has long been contentious, with supporters arguing that it brings fresh talent and expertise into government roles, while critics fear it may undermine the meritocratic and representative nature of the civil service. The government's current stance, as reflected in Minister Singh's letter, underscores the importance of balancing these considerations with the need to uphold Constitutional values.

The UPSC has yet to respond to the minister's request. The situation continues to evolve as the debate over lateral entry into the Indian bureaucracy gains momentum