Mamata Banerjee objects to recruiting from private sector
She also called for a debate before the step is implemented.
Kolkata: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday lashed out at the Modi government over its recent move to induct professionals from the private sectors as joint secretaries into the central government. She also called for a debate before the step is implemented.
Expressing her concern Ms Banerjee wrote on Facebook, “According to the recent media reports, the Government of India has invited applications for appointment to the post of Joint Secretary of 10 important ministries of government of India through lateral entries.”
Ms Banerjee argued, “In my view, there is no objection if talented persons join the Central Government to improve its professional competence and efficiency. But I have few concerns about the issue involving various implications.” The Trinamool Congress supremo elaborated, “The officers from All India Services/Central Services presently hold positions of Joint Secretary and equivalent levels in the Government of India. These officers are inducted in government services through transparent recruitment processes by Constitutional bodies like the UPSC. The officers are expected to be politically neutral while discharging their duties. Any shift from such standard will not be good for the nation.”
She pointed out, “Presently, the officers of All India/Central Services have been working in the government with sincerity and accountability and maintaining secrecy, where the paramount interest of the nation remains supreme.” Ms Banerjee underlined, “In view of it, I feel that any deviation from the system, particularly by inducting professionals from non-governmental sector, notwithstanding their talent may dilute the sensitivity attached to the functioning of government.”
The CM further said, “Therefore, it is necessary to have wider debate and discussion with different stake-holders, including representatives of the All India Services/Central Services.”