In a significant development, the Central government has requested the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to cancel its recent advertisement for lateral entry into 45 government positions. This move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s directive to review the scheme in light of demands to align it with the principles of reservation, which have been echoed by opposition parties and key NDA allies, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) and Janata Dal (United) (JDU).
The existing lateral entry scheme, which aims to recruit specialists, including those from the private sector, into government roles, currently does not adhere to the reservation formula. The Centre has argued that these positions are “single-cadre posts” and should be treated as specialized jobs. However, the Prime Minister has called for a re-evaluation of this stance to ensure that the process is in line with the principles of social justice and equity enshrined in the Constitution, particularly regarding reservation provisions.
In a letter from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Minister Jitendra Singh to UPSC Chairman Preeti Sudan, the Centre emphasized the need for reform in the lateral entry process. “The Prime Minister firmly believes that the process of lateral entry must be aligned with the principles of equity and social justice enshrined in the Constitution, particularly with regard to reservation provisions,” the letter stated.
The Centre’s letter underscores the Prime Minister’s direct involvement in the issue, recognizing the widespread concerns over the current lateral entry framework. “For the PM, reservation in public employment is a cornerstone of our social justice framework, aimed at addressing historical injustices and promoting inclusivity. It is important that the constitutional mandate towards social justice is upheld so that deserving candidates from marginalized communities get their rightful representation in government services,” the letter further stated.
The UPSC had advertised 45 posts on August 17, including 10 for joint secretaries and 35 for directors/deputy secretaries, to be filled through the lateral entry mode on a contract basis. The scheme has been a subject of debate, particularly concerning its compliance with reservation policies. The review now initiated by the Centre signals a potential shift in how these appointments might be handled in the future to better reflect the principles of social justice.
