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The recent controversy surrounding the lateral entry system in India's senior bureaucracy has sparked a heated debate between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Indian National Congress (INC). Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has accused the Congress of hypocrisy for criticizing the system, arguing that it was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, led by the Congress, that initially conceptualized and implemented lateral entry. This article delves into the origins of the lateral entry system, the rationale behind its introduction, and the ongoing political debate surrounding it.
Vaishnaw's statement, made on August 18, 2023, points to the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) established in 2005 by the UPA government. The ARC, chaired by Veerappa Moily, recommended the recruitment of experts to fill gaps in roles requiring specialized knowledge. The minister emphasizes that the NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has merely created a transparent and fair method for implementing this concept through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
The introduction of lateral entry, however, goes beyond a mere implementation of a UPA-era recommendation. It signifies a significant shift in the Indian bureaucracy, aiming to bring in fresh perspectives and expertise from outside the traditional civil service structure. This move has been driven by the recognition that the rapidly evolving challenges of governance require a diverse skillset, often lacking within the traditional framework. The government argues that bringing in professionals with experience from the private sector and specialized fields can enhance efficiency and responsiveness in administrative machinery.
The Congress, on the other hand, has expressed concerns regarding the lateral entry system. They argue that the process lacks transparency and raises questions about the selection criteria. Critics also worry that the system could undermine the meritocratic nature of the civil service and create an imbalance in favor of individuals with private sector experience. The debate underscores the need for a nuanced discussion about how to effectively balance the need for specialized expertise with the principles of meritocracy and transparency in the Indian civil service.
The lateral entry system remains a point of contention between the ruling and opposition parties. While the BJP views it as a crucial reform to modernize India's public administration, the Congress remains skeptical, raising concerns about its potential drawbacks. The ongoing debate highlights the need for a careful examination of the system, addressing concerns about transparency and meritocracy while ensuring that the initiative successfully brings in the much-needed expertise to effectively tackle the challenges of governance in the 21st century.
Source: Hypocrisy, says Vaishnaw on Congress criticism to lateral entry in bureaucracy