UPSC Cancels Lateral Entry Advertisement Amid Reservation Row

The UPSC cancelled its latest lateral entry advertisement for government roles following concerns over the absence of reservation. The move aims to ensure fair representation for marginalized communities. The government will now review the lateral-entry process to align with reservation policies aimed at promoting social justice.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on Tuesday rescinded its latest lateral entry advertisement, designed to fill key government positions, following a political uproar over the absence of reservation provisions for marginalized communities.

Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh prompted the decision by writing to UPSC Chairperson Preeti Sudan, urging a cancellation to ensure rightful representation for these communities in government roles. The original notice, issued on August 17, sought to fill 45 posts through lateral entry, including 10 joint secretaries and 35 director or deputy secretary positions.

The decision faced criticism from opposition parties and BJP ally Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has taken steps to reassess the lateral-entry recruitment process, considering reservation policies to foster social justice. Since 2018, 63 appointments have been made through lateral recruitment, with 35 sourced from the private sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)