BJP's 'UPA Time' Comeback After Rahul Gandhi's Tirade On UPSC Lateral Entry

Rahul Gandhi slammed the Modi government's use of lateral entry for recruiting officers, alleging that it allows for the appointment of individuals loyal to the BJP's ideological mentor, the RSS, bypassing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

He also expressed concerns that this practice undermines reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories in key government positions.

Photo Credit: PTI

However, the BJP quickly countered his criticism, pointing out that the concept of lateral entry was initially developed under the Congress-led UPA government.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), established in 2005 during the UPA era and chaired by Veerappa Moily, recommended lateral entry to fill roles requiring specialised knowledge.

Vaishnaw stated, "INC hypocrisy is evident on the lateral entry matter. It was the UPA government which developed the concept of lateral entry."

He added that the NDA government has since implemented a transparent method for recruitment through the UPSC, ensuring fairness and enhancing governance.

The ARC's recommendations emphasised recruiting professionals from the private sector, academia, and public sector undertakings to address gaps in expertise within the civil services.