Political Turmoil Over Lateral Entry in India
The ongoing political uproar surrounding the issue of lateral entry into civil services has seen significant developments recently. Amidst growing tensions and outcries, the central government has decided to withdraw its previously announced decision on this matter. Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, wrote to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) requesting the cancellation of recruitments made under lateral entry. He pointed out that these appointments did not incorporate provisions for reservation, necessitating immediate retraction.
Rahul Gandhi’s Response
In light of the government’s U-turn on lateral entry, Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition and Congress MP, took to social media to express his views. He stated that the BJP’s attempts to use lateral entry as a political tool would be thwarted indefinitely. Emphasizing the importance of social equity, he declared that the party would exceed the 50% reservation limit and ensure social justice based on caste counts.
“We will protect the Constitution and the reservation system at any cost. We will defeat the BJP’s conspiracies related to lateral entry. I say again – we will ensure social justice by breaking the 50% reservation limit based on caste counts. Jai Hind.”
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 20, 2024
Reactions from the Opposition
Following the government’s reversal, several opposition leaders have leveled direct attacks against the administration. Congress released a video featuring Rahul Gandhi, where he adopts a confrontational tone questioning the government on its stance regarding reservation policies. He underlines that the responsibility of ensuring social justice lies with the coalition.
“The BJP was openly attempting to deny reservations through ‘lateral entry.’ We will never allow the BJP’s schemes to distance the marginalized from the top positions in the country – INDIA will ensure social justice for every section.”
— Congress (@INCIndia) August 20, 2024
Akhilesh Yadav’s Criticism
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav also weighed in on this issue, criticizing the government for bowing to the united front of opposition parties. He remarked that the BJP’s anti-reservation stance had been exposed through the lateral entry controversy. His statements reflected the sentiment that this moment marks a significant victory for the opposition coalition.
“The governmental plot to negate reservations by backdoor appointments in UPSC has finally succumbed to the unity of the opposition. The BJP’s conspiracies are no longer succeeding – this is a great victory for awakening and consciousness in the PDA.”
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) August 20, 2024
Conclusion
This recent episode surrounding lateral entry has not only incited widespread political dissent but also raised critical questions regarding reservation policies in India. As the opposition consolidates its efforts to address these concerns, future actions and responses from the government will be closely scrutinized. The commitment to social justice remains at the forefront of this political discourse, reflecting the values and aspirations of a significant segment of the Indian populace.
