Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Modi Government’s Lateral Entry Policy as Bigoted

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sharply criticized the Narendra Modi government’s policy of lateral entry into top government positions, labeling it as an “attack on Dalits, OBCs, and Adivasis.”

In a social media post on X, Gandhi accused the BJP of undermining the Constitution and threatening reservations for marginalized communities. He described the policy as part of the BJP’s distorted vision of Ram Rajya, which he believes aims to erode constitutional safeguards for Bahujans.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also condemned the central government’s move. Yadav labeled the lateral entry policy as a “big conspiracy” designed to strip away reservations and rights from marginalized groups, including Dalits and minorities.

The recent UPSC notification for recruiting senior positions such as Joint Secretaries and Directors through lateral entry has sparked opposition criticism. Critics argue that this move undermines the reservation rights of OBCs, SCs, and STs.

Rahul Gandhi raised concerns that the policy allows Prime Minister Modi to appoint officials through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) instead of the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) process. He accused Modi of attacking the Constitution by bypassing established procedures.

Gandhi stated, “Narendra Modi is attacking the Constitution by recruiting public servants through RSS instead of the UPSC.” He further criticized the policy for openly threatening reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories by appointing individuals through lateral entry to key government positions.

The debate over the lateral entry policy reflects broader concerns about meritocracy and inclusivity in government appointments. Opponents argue that bypassing the UPSC and traditional recruitment processes compromises the representation and rights of underprivileged groups.

To summarize, the controversy surrounding the lateral entry policy highlights significant tensions between the Modi government and opposition parties over issues of reservation and merit-based appointments. Gandhi and Yadav’s criticism underscores fears that the policy may erode constitutional protections and marginalize historically disadvantaged communities.