Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has criticized the Modi government for appointing public servants through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) instead of following the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) route. He has expressed concerns that this approach may undermine the reservation system and limit opportunities for underprivileged individuals. Gandhi has also raised questions about potential corporate influence in these appointments, citing the recent appointment of SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch as an example. The issue of lateral entry has sparked a debate about the role of the UPSC in selecting top government officials and its impact on social justice.
The Controversy Over Modi Government's Lateral Hiring Practices
Background:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has recently come under fire for its practice of hiring senior civil servants through lateral entry, bypassing the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) route. This move has raised concerns about political interference, undermining of the reservation system, and corporate influence in government appointments.
Criticisms:
1. Political Interference:
Critics argue that lateral hiring allows the government to appoint individuals loyal to the ruling party, rather than those who have proven their merit through competitive exams. This could lead to politicization of the bureaucracy and compromise its independence.
2. Undermining Reservation System:
The UPSC exam system is designed to ensure fair and equal opportunities for individuals irrespective of caste, religion, or socioeconomic status. Lateral hiring, which is not subject to these reservations, could undermine this principle and limit opportunities for underprivileged candidates.
3. Corporate Influence:
Concerns have also been raised about potential corporate influence in lateral appointments. Critics point to the recent appointment of Madhabi Puri Buch, a former corporate executive, as chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
Leader of Opposition's Concerns:
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the Modi government's lateral hiring practices, expressing concerns about their impact on social justice and transparency. He has questioned the government's motive for bypassing the UPSC route and has demanded greater accountability in these appointments.
Government's Defense:
The government has defended its lateral hiring policy, arguing that it allows them to bring in specialized expertise and experience from the private sector. They contend that these individuals can contribute valuable insights and help improve government efficiency. However, critics maintain that this can be achieved without undermining the UPSC system.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is lateral hiring? Lateral hiring is the practice of hiring senior government officials directly, bypassing the UPSC exam route.
2. Why has it sparked controversy? It has raised concerns about political interference, undermining of the reservation system, and corporate influence.
3. What are the arguments in favor of lateral hiring? The government argues that it allows them to bring in specialized expertise and improve government efficiency.
4. What are the concerns raised by the opposition? The opposition criticizes it as a way to appoint loyalists, undermine the UPSC system, and promote corporate influence.
5. What is the future of lateral hiring in India? The debate over lateral hiring is ongoing, with the government and opposition taking different positions. The outcome will likely shape the future of civil service recruitment in India.
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