Days after huge uproar over selection of controversial probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar under disability criteria in Maharashtra, a senior and pro-active IAS officer from has landed in controversy for expressing views against the Persons with Disability (PwD) reservation in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Smita Sabharwal – member-secretary of the Telangana Finance Commission reacting to the row over Puja Khedkar, expressed her disagreement over providing reservations at all in civil services for people, who are not fit physically. As civil servants expected to travel extensively and patiently hearing pleas from the public, she asserted that they need physical stamina.
She said the demands of the job for ground work make the job difficult for those with disabilities. “With all due respect to the Differently Abled. Does an Airline hire a pilot with a disability? Or would you trust a surgeon with a disability. The nature of the #AIS ( IAS/IPS/IFoS) is field-work, long taxing hours, listening first hand to people’s grievances-which requires physical fitness. Why does this premier service need this Quota in the first place!,” Smita Sabharwal posted on X – earlier known as Twitter.
Ms Sabharwal’s post drew sharp responses with many calling it “flawed logic” and ignorance. “This is such a pathetic and exclusionary view to have. Interesting to see how bureaucrats are showing their limited thoughts and their privilege too,” Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said.
“Amazed that an IAS officer would be so fundamentally ignorant about disability. Most disabilities have no impact on stamina. Or intelligence. But this tweet shows enlightenment and diversity are badly needed,” said senior Supreme Court Advocate Karuna Nandy.
Responding to the post of Supreme Court advocate, Smitha posted, “Madam, I am fundamentally aware of the needs of the job. The issue here is about the suitability for a ground job. Also I firmly believe other Services within the Govt such as desk/think-tank nature is well suited. Please don’t jump to conclusions. Legal framework is for overall protection of the rights of equality. No debate there(sic),”