In its last year of the present term, the Modi regime has opened the post of Joiht Secretary in the Govt of India to “talented and motivated professionals” from the private sector.
The circular of the Department of Personnel Training (DOPT) that May be read here, promises candidates lateral entry into posts of Joint Secretaries. The move has generated concern and controversy. While corporates May welcome the move, analysts say this could be a sure fire, even brazen way of allowing RSS cadre entry into government service. Worse still, these coveted posts that are filled by IAS officers who go through the rigorous Union Public Services Examiniation, will allow a select few to bypass this rigour and training.
Not only will this cause heartburn among career bureaucrats, it will affect the quality and approach of those joining. According to the advertisement put out, candidates need to be “outstanding individuals willing to contribute to nation building.” Recruitment will be on a contract basis for three to five years in ten departments—Revenue, Financial Services, Economic Affairs and Civil Aviation. Forty years is the magic age for eligibility. Once shortlisted, candidates will be called for a personal interview and if selected eligible for a pay package from Rsv1,44,000 to Rs 2,18,000. Apart from all other perks and allowances. Will this move facilitate the careful selection of men and women from the RSS cadres well known for their rigid and anti Constitutional world views? This is a matter of grave national concern