Rahul Gandhi’s recent parliamentary address sparked a debate on the lack of representation from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in the 2024 Budget drafting process. While the opposition leader highlighted the absence of SC/ST officers, the Union Finance Minister countered with a similar lack of representation in the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust and Foundation. However, the real issue lies deeper than these political tit-for-tats.
The root of the problem is the continued dominance of upper castes in senior positions within the Indian Civil Service. Data from the Ministry of State, Jitendra Singh, reveals a stark disparity: out of 322 officers holding Joint Secretary and Secretary positions, a mere 16 belong to SC, 13 to ST, and 39 to Other Backward Classes (OBC). This signifies a clear lack of representation from reserved categories at policy-making levels.
The current system, with its age-based retirement policy, works against those from reserved categories. SC/ST and PwBD candidates, despite their qualifications, often join the civil service later and are forced to retire before reaching senior positions due to age limits. This inherent disadvantage, stemming from the age factor, creates an unfair playing field.
A potential solution lies in moving away from the age-based retirement system and adopting a fixed tenure system for all civil servants. This would ensure that individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of their age of entry, have an equal chance to progress to senior positions. A fixed tenure, such as 35 years, would allow for a more equitable distribution of leadership roles and provide opportunities for those who join the civil service later in their careers.
This approach could be further refined by lowering the current age limits while maintaining a fixed tenure of 35 years, ensuring that everyone retires by around 67 years of age. Stringent medical fitness examinations after 62 years can be implemented to ensure the health and competence of senior officers.
By implementing a fixed tenure system, India can move towards a more inclusive civil service, one that truly represents the diversity of its population. This shift would be a significant step towards realizing the dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) where social justice is a reality for all.
The Leader of the Opposition, if truly committed to social justice, should advocate for an independent and multidisciplinary committee to examine this proposal with an open mind. This committee should include representatives from SC/ST, OBC, and PwBD communities to ensure a comprehensive and fair evaluation of the fixed tenure system as a viable solution for achieving greater representation and inclusion within the Indian civil service.
