Union Law Minister Defends Lateral Entry Amidst Rahul Gandhi's Criticisms

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal rebuked Rahul Gandhi's criticism over the government's lateral entry policy, highlighting similar practices by the Congress, including the appointment of former PM Manmohan Singh. Meghwal also accused Congress of deceiving marginalized communities on reservation issues and addressed past policies under Rajiv Gandhi and the UPA government.

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Monday criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the government's lateral entry policy, pointing out that Congress had previously made similar decisions. He highlighted that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who joined the Finance Ministry in 1971 through lateral entry as an Economic Advisor, later became Finance Secretary. Meghwal emphasized that Gandhi, as Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, should be more informed.

Meghwal accused Congress of attempting to mislead SC, ST, and OBC communities regarding reservation issues. He mentioned that the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, established in 2005 during the Congress-led UPA government, had recommended hiring experts for specialized roles through lateral entry to fill gaps requiring expertise.

Additionally, Meghwal alleged that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi opposed the implementation of the Mandal Commission report, accusing Congress of suddenly showing false concern for OBC communities. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi, in a post on X, criticized the BJP-led government for lateral entry appointments, calling it an attack on marginalized groups and a threat to constitutional reservations. Several opposition parties have opposed the recent UPSC's call for applications for 45 mid-level posts through lateral entry.

(With inputs from agencies.)