Amid a massive controversy involving Puja Khedkar, a probationary IAS officer selected under the disability criteria, senior bureaucrat Smita Sabharwal spoke on the issue, leading to outrage on the X platform.
In an X post, Smita Sabharwal wrote, “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 the premier service need this quota in the first place? #justasking” she added in her X post.
Who is Smita Sabharwal?
Popularly known as “The People’s Officer” Smita Sabharwal is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2001 batch belonging to Telangana cadre. She is currently working as Secretary to the Chief Minister, Government of Telangana, as well as Secretary of Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department (Mission Bhagiratha).
Smita Sabharwal’s Remark Sparked Controversy
The IAS officer was slammed by Shiv Sena’s MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, who responded to her post by saying it “pathetic” and “exclusionary.”
In her response, Priyanka Chaturvedi wrote, “This is such a pathetic and exclusionary view to have. Interesting to see how bureaucrats are showing their limited thoughts and their privilege too.”
Smita Sabharwal replied, “Madam, with due respect, if bureaucrats do not speak on pertinent issues of governance, then who will? My thoughts and concern, stem from a career of 24 odd years. No limited experience.”
“Kindly read the view in entirety. I have stated that the AIS has different demands compared to other Central Services. The talented differently-abled can surely find great opportunities,” she added in her tweet.
Puja Khedkar Allegedly Forged Documents
Puja Khedkar allegedly forged documents regarding her OBC and disability status.
“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” Karuna Nandy said on Smita Sabharwal tweet.
To which Smita replied, 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.”
Read more: IAS Officer Puja Khedkar Under Scrutiny; Alleged Misuse of Power and Eligibility Issues
