The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS): A Need for Reform
The Puja Khedkar Case and Its Implications
The case exposed serious flaws in the UPSC system.
It highlighted the potential for manipulation in reservation categories.
It raised questions about the transparency and integrity of the selection process.
Issues with the Current System
Income Criteria:
Unclear definition of income for OBC and EWS categories.
Lack of proper verification of income certificates.
Potential for manipulation and fraud.
Disability Category:
Lack of clear guidelines and verification procedures.
Potential for fraud and abuse.
Lack of Transparency and Accountability:
Government's failure to address issues and update rules.
Rampant "sifarish" (request) culture.
Lack of proactive scrutiny and verification.
Proposed Reforms
Clear Guidelines:
Government should issue clear guidelines on income and disability.
Establish verification bodies to ensure consistency and fairness.
Technology-Driven Solutions:
Adopt advanced technology to combat fraud and ensure transparency.
Implement a robust system of verification.
Enhanced Accountability:
Impose penalties on officials who certify people wrongly.
Strengthen the role of courts in addressing cases of misconduct.
Review of Eligibility Criteria:
Re-evaluate the eligibility criteria for mental disability in the civil services.
Consider introducing an aptitude test in the examination.
Conclusion
The UPSC and IAS need urgent reforms to restore their credibility and ensure a fair and transparent selection process. By addressing the issues highlighted in the editorial and implementing the proposed reforms, the government can help to rebuild public trust in these important institutions.It is time to x the UPSC selection process
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