Centre Recants Lateral Entry in Bureaucracy Amidst Opposition Uproar

The Indian government, under pressure from opposition parties, canceled a lateral entry recruitment advertisement following criticism about the system's impact on reservations for lower castes. While opposition lauded the decision as a win for social justice, the government asserted its ongoing commitment to reservation and constitutional principles.

In a move that has sparked a political maelstrom, the Indian government on Tuesday withdrew an advertisement for lateral entry recruitment in the bureaucracy. This decision followed vehement opposition pressure and widespread criticism concerning its potential impact on reserved caste quotas.

BJP ally and Union Minister Chirag Paswan welcomed this reversal, emphasizing that it showcased the Modi administration's dedication to social justice for SCs, STs, and OBCs. Addressing the media in Patna, Paswan accused previous governments of neglecting reserved caste positions and praised the Prime Minister's intervention.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge declared the cancellation a victory for the Constitution and reservation system. They cautioned that vigilance would be necessary to counter future attempts to undermine these protections. I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterated the Modi government's commitment to reservations, asserting that principles of social justice were pivotal in this decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)