What qualifications are necessary to become an IAS officer? Can disabled individuals be deemed ineligible for these exams? Is selecting them a sin? These questions are currently under intense discussion. Senior IAS officer Smita Sabharwal from Telangana has sparked a major controversy by stating that IAS candidates should have no disabilities, claiming that officers should be physically complete and able-bodied.
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS) are crucial roles selected through the rigorous UPSC exams. However, recent irregularities in the case of Pooja Khedkar have brought criticism to these services. Khedkar, who hails from Maharashtra, was selected as an IAS officer under the disability quota due to her visual impairment, which she documented with certificates. Despite her qualifications, her selection has faced scrutiny and skepticism, particularly from some BJP leaders.
In response to this issue, Smita Sabharwal recently questioned the need for a disability quota in civil services. She argued that only healthy individuals should be selected, as the job demands long working hours and the ability to travel at any time. Her comments have incited significant backlash. Prominent mentor Bala Latha criticized her remarks, stating that being an IAS officer doesn't require being physically flawless. Latha challenged Sabharwal, suggesting they both take the exam to see who scores better, and demanded a show-cause notice from CS Shanti Kumari if Sabharwal does not retract her statements within 24 hours.
Many have expressed similar views, and the Disability Commission is also outraged. The outcome of this controversy remains to be seen.
