On Tuesday, the Centre requested the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to retract its recent advertisement for lateral entry into the bureaucracy. The advertisement surrounded controversy regarding reservation for the advertised positions.
Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh wrote to UPSC Chairman Preeti Sudan, requesting the cancellation of the advertisement. He emphasised that this step is necessary to ensure marginalised communities receive their rightful representation in government services.
On August 17, the UPSC published a notification on their website. The notification stated the recruitment of 45 joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries through lateral entry. This advertisement will also appoint specialists, including those from the private sector, to government departments.
The decision sparked criticism from opposition parties, who argued that it undermined the reservation rights of OBCs, SCs, and STs.
Singh said, “As these positions are considered specialised and designated as single-cadre posts, there has been no provision for reservation in these appointments. This issue needs to be reviewed and resolved in light of the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s emphasis on ensuring social justice.”
He urged the UPSC to cancel the lateral entry recruitment advertisement issued on August 17, 2024.
“This action would mark a significant step forward in the pursuit of social justice and empowerment,” he added.
