Key Points:
- IAS officer Smita Sabharwal’s controversial post questioning the disability quota in civil services ignites backlash.
- A police complaint was filed by activist Jangaiah at the Ibrahimpatnam Police Station in Hyderabad.
- The post received criticism from various political figures, legal experts, and disability rights activists.
Controversial Post by Smita Sabharwal
IAS officer Smita Sabharwal, Member-Secretary of the Telangana Finance Commission, recently sparked controversy with her remarks on the disability quota in civil services. Taking to X, Sabharwal questioned the necessity of the quota, suggesting that the physical demands of civil services positions may not be suitable for individuals with disabilities.
She wrote, “As this debate is blowing up- With all due respect to the Differently Abled. Does an Airline hire a pilot with 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! #justasking”
Backlash and Police Complaint
The post was met with immediate backlash. Activist Jangaiah, state president of the Vikalangula Hakkula Raksha Porata Samiti, a disability rights group, filed a police complaint against Sabharwal at the Ibrahimpatnam Police Station. Jangaiah described her remarks as deeply disrespectful to the specially-abled community.
Criticism from Political and Legal Figures
Prominent political figures and legal experts also criticized Sabharwal’s post. Shiv Sena UBT leader Priyanka Chaturvedi called the view “pathetic and exclusionary,” highlighting the perceived insensitivity and privilege in Sabharwal’s remarks. Senior Supreme Court Advocate Karuna Nundy expressed amazement at an IAS officer’s fundamental ignorance about disability, emphasizing that most disabilities do not impact stamina or intelligence. Nundy underscored the need for greater enlightenment and diversity in the bureaucracy.
Arvind Gupta, a trustee of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), highlighted the significant contributions of individuals with disabilities. He noted that the NCPEDP has been instrumental in advocating for disabled individuals in the UPSC and pointed out the daily struggles they face due to a lack of awareness. Gupta called for a universal ecosystem that enables persons with disabilities to contribute equally to society, rather than excluding them.
Conclusion
IAS officer Smita Sabharwal’s post questioning the disability quota in civil services has ignited a significant controversy, leading to a police complaint and widespread criticism. The incident underscores the ongoing debate about inclusion and the capabilities of individuals with disabilities in demanding roles. As calls for greater awareness and inclusivity grow, the response to Sabharwal’s remarks highlights the importance of educating and integrating all members of society in a fair and equal manner.
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