How PM Modi’s Commitment to Social Justice Shaped the UPSC Lateral Entry Decision
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, particularly through the application of reservation principles in the Union Public Service Commission’s (UPSC) lateral entry process. This statement underscores the Modi government’s dedication to social justice, a theme that has been evident throughout its tenure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently demonstrated his commitment to social justice, as evidenced by the constitutional status granted to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). This move was seen as a significant step in ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and represented at the highest levels of government. According to Ashwini Vaishnaw, this commitment extends to various spheres, including education and public service, where reservation principles have been rigorously applied.
The Modi government has implemented reservation principles in several key areas, including admissions to NEET, Sainik Schools, and other educational institutions. This has ensured that students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) have access to opportunities that were historically denied to them. By incorporating these principles, the government aims to level the playing field and promote inclusivity in education.
Vaishnaw also pointed out that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the government has worked to honor the legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar. One of the ways this has been done is by giving Ambedkar’s “five sacred places” their proper recognition and status. These places are of great significance to Ambedkar’s followers and to the broader movement for social justice in India.
Another significant point highlighted by Vaishnaw was the historic election of the President of India from a tribal community. This event is a testament to the Modi government’s commitment to ensuring that the highest offices in the country are accessible to all, regardless of their background. It also reflects the broader effort to enhance representation and inclusion of marginalized communities in public life.
Under the Modi administration, the principle of saturation has been a guiding force in the distribution of welfare benefits. This approach ensures that every welfare program reaches the poorest and most marginalized sections of society. According to Vaishnaw, communities such as SCs, STs, and OBCs have been among the primary beneficiaries of this policy, receiving the maximum support from various government initiatives.
Vaishnaw contrasted the current government’s approach with that of previous administrations, particularly the Congress government before 2014. He criticized the lack of focus on reservation principles during that period, citing examples such as the induction of finance secretaries through lateral entry without considering reservation.
He mentioned former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and then Planning Commission deputy chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia, who both entered service through lateral entry, as instances where reservation principles were overlooked.
Lateral entry into the bureaucracy, a process by which specialists, including those from the private sector, are recruited into government departments, has been a contentious issue. The recent UPSC notification for recruiting 45 joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries through lateral entry sparked criticism from opposition parties.
They argued that the advertised posts did not adequately reflect reservation rights for OBCs, SCs, and STs. In response to these concerns, the Centre intervened, with Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh requesting the UPSC to withdraw the advertisement to ensure that marginalized communities receive their rightful representation in government services.
Vaishnaw emphasized that Prime Minister Modi views lateral entry through UPSC as a means to introduce transparency in public service. By incorporating the principle of reservation, the process now reflects a stronger commitment to social justice, aligning with the government’s broader agenda of inclusivity and fairness in governance.
The statements made by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlight the Modi government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that social justice principles are embedded in all aspects of governance. From the application of reservation in educational and public institutions to the recognition of marginalized communities in the highest offices, the government’s policies aim to create a more inclusive society.
The recent developments regarding lateral entry into the bureaucracy further demonstrate this commitment, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, has a fair opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress.
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