Centre Urges UPSC to Cancel Lateral Entry Recruitment Over Reservation Concerns

The Centre asked the UPSC to cancel the recent lateral entry recruitment due to issues over reservation in the advertised positions. Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized ensuring marginalized communities' representation in government services. The decision sparked criticism from opposition parties for undermining reservation rights for OBCs, SCs, and STs.

The Centre on Tuesday requested that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) cancel its latest lateral entry recruitment, amid ongoing disputes over reservation policies in the advertised posts.

Union Minister of State for Personnel, Jitendra Singh, wrote to UPSC Chairman Preeti Sudan, urging the cancellation of the advertisement to ensure that marginalized communities receive rightful representation in government positions.

On August 17, the UPSC issued a notification to recruit 45 joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries through lateral entry, targeting specialists including those from the private sector for government roles. Opposition parties criticized the move, arguing that it undermines the reservation rights of OBCs, SCs, and STs.

In his letter, Singh stated that for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the reservation in public employment is essential for social justice, aimed at addressing historical injustices and promoting inclusivity. Singh urged the UPSC to retract the August 17 advertisement for lateral entry recruitment.

Singh noted that while the principle of lateral entry was supported by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission and the Sixth Pay Commission, past appointments often did not follow reservation protocols. Singh added that the current government aims to make the recruitment process transparent and institutionally driven.

According to Singh, Prime Minister Modi believes that aligning the lateral entry process with constitutional principles of equity and social justice, particularly regarding reservations, is crucial.