In a surprising turn of events, the Centre has directed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to withdraw its recent notification for lateral entry into the bureaucracy.
This decision comes amid fierce criticism from opposition leaders, who labeled the move as unconstitutional. Union Minister Jitender Singh, in a letter to the UPSC chief, stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes the “move should be aligned with social justice.”
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to making the lateral entry process “institutionally driven, transparent and open,” while addressing concerns about equity and constitutional provisions for reservation. The UPSC had recently advertised 45 senior positions across 24 ministries, seeking “talented and motivated Indian nationals” for roles including Joint Secretary, Director, and Deputy Secretary.
This lateral entry scheme, formally introduced during Modi’s first term in 2018, aimed to bring outside expertise into government departments. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi had denounced the process as an “attack on Dalits,” sparking a heated debate on the merits and implications of lateral entry into bureaucracy.
The BJP countered by pointing out that the concept originated under a Congress-led government. This reversal marks a significant shift for the Modi government, which had previously pushed through numerous decisions despite opposition criticism. Analysts note that the current administration, formed with NDA allies in 2024, appears more susceptible to public and political pressure compared to its previous terms when it enjoyed a substantial majority.
The withdrawal of the lateral entry notification follows other recent instances where the government has shown a willingness to reconsider controversial decisions, including the Broadcasting Bill and Wakf Board Bill. It also comes in the wake of the government distancing itself from a contentious Supreme Court opinion on reservation quotas for STs and SCs.
As the situation develops, questions arise about the future of lateral entry in Indian bureaucracy and the balance between administrative reform and social justice considerations.
