The Narendra Modi government faced backlash from the opposition and its own allies regarding lateral appointments in the bureaucracy, which led to a swift change in direction. This move came after Union Minister Jitendra Singh directed the cancellation of an advertisement for 45 posts and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's statement on the government's commitment to social justice. The government's cautious approach is attributed to the successful opposition campaign during the Lok Sabha elections, where Congress leader Rahul Gandhi consistently criticized the government's actions towards reservations. With Assembly elections coming up, the BJP is wary of any further damage to its SC/ST and OBC vote bank, and has yet to clarify its stance on sub-categorization and the Supreme Court's observation on creamy layer exclusion.
Lateral Entry in Indian Bureaucracy: Controversy and Course Correction
Background
The Indian government has been implementing a "lateral entry" policy since 2020, aimed at bringing in talented professionals from outside the bureaucracy to fill senior positions. This policy has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting the infusion of fresh ideas and expertise, while others expressing concerns about the potential erosion of meritocracy and reservation policies.
Recent Controversy
In April 2023, the Narendra Modi government faced backlash from the opposition and its own allies regarding lateral appointments in the bureaucracy. Union Minister Jitendra Singh directed the cancellation of an advertisement for 45 posts, while Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the government's commitment to social justice.
This move came after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's sustained criticism of the government's actions towards reservations during the Lok Sabha elections. With Assembly elections approaching, the BJP is wary of any further damage to its SC/ST and OBC vote bank.
Government's Response
The government's cautious approach is attributed to the successful opposition campaign during the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP has yet to clarify its stance on sub-categorization and the Supreme Court's observation on creamy layer exclusion, indicating a desire to balance its commitments to merit and reservation.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is lateral entry in the bureaucracy?
Lateral entry refers to the recruitment of experienced professionals from outside the bureaucracy to fill senior positions.
2. What are the objectives of lateral entry?
To infuse fresh ideas, expertise, and diversity into the bureaucracy.
3. What are the concerns about lateral entry?
Erosion of meritocracy, undermining of reservation policies, and possible favouritism.
4. What is the government's current position on lateral entry?
The government has adopted a cautious approach, balancing its commitments to merit and reservation.
5. What are the ongoing debates related to lateral entry?
Sub-categorization of reserved categories, exclusion of creamy layer candidates, and the impact on the overall functioning of the bureaucracy.
Conclusion
The government's decision to reassess its lateral entry policy highlights the intricate balance it must strike between promoting merit and ensuring equity in the bureaucratic apparatus. The upcoming Assembly elections will likely further shape the debate and the government's approach to this contentious issue.
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