NEW DELHI: In a significant turn of events, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has retracted its advertisement for lateral entry into the Indian bureaucracy, a decision that has sparked widespread debate and criticism from various political factions. 

The move comes amid allegations that the initiative could undermine the reservation rights of marginalized communities, including Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

The UPSC cancelled the advertisement related to lateral entry that was issued a few days ago to appoint 45 Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries in Central Ministries, following the directions from the Department of Personnel and Training. Earlier today, the government asked the UPSC to cancel the advertisement related to lateral entry in the bureaucracy. 

The concept of lateral entry, which allows professionals from various fields to join the civil services, was initially proposed to infuse fresh perspectives and expertise into the government. It gained traction during the tenure of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission in 2005 and was later recommended by the NITI Aayog in 2017 as part of its Action Agenda. However, the recent advertisement, which aimed to recruit individuals with specialized skills, faced backlash from opposition leaders who labeled it a "well-planned conspiracy" to exclude underprivileged candidates from government jobs.

Prominent political figures, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and leaders from regional parties, condemned the initiative. They argue that it deprives deserving candidates from marginalized backgrounds of opportunities for advancement within the government. The criticism intensified following reports that the government was under pressure from its allies, leading to the decision to withdraw the advertisement.

The UPSC's cancellation of the advertisement has raised questions about the future of lateral entry in the Indian bureaucracy. Advocates of the scheme argue that it is essential for modernizing the civil services and addressing the evolving needs of governance. However, the opposition remains firm in its stance, emphasizing the need for equitable access to government positions for all segments of society.

As the debate continues, the government faces mounting pressure to clarify its position on lateral entry and ensure that any future initiatives do not compromise the rights of marginalized communities. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for the recruitment policies of the Indian civil services in the coming months.