Minister Highlights Inappropriate Comments on Differently-Abled Individuals The Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister, D Anasuya (Seethakka), has strongly condemned the statements made by senior bureaucrat Smitha Sabharwal regarding reservations for differently-abled persons in the UPSC exams.
Minister Seethakka emphasized that it was highly objectionable for Sabharwal, despite being a senior IAS officer, to comment on the physical fitness of differently-abled individuals. She pointed out that Sabharwal should understand the difference between field visits and office work.
Advocating for Differently-Abled Individuals’ Rights and Achievements “I am hopeful that Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has been briefed about her comments. If not, I will personally address the issue with him,” Seethakka stated.
Minister Seethakka noted that differently-abled individuals have achieved significant success across various fields, demonstrating their dedication and hard work. She stressed that society should support and appreciate their efforts rather than undermine them. Making derogatory remarks about differently-abled persons reflects poorly on the mental state of those who make such comments, she added.
Smitha Sabharwal’s Remarks and Public Outrage Senior IAS officer Smitha Sabharwal’s comments on the reservation quota for differently-abled individuals in civil service jobs have sparked widespread controversy. Her tweet questioning the necessity of such a quota has divided netizens, with many expressing their opinions for and against her views. Differently-abled individuals and their advocates have strongly criticized Sabharwal’s statements, demanding government action against her. Civil services ranker and mentor Balalatha has challenged Sabharwal, asserting that she could achieve higher marks in the civil services exams.
Political Reactions to Sabharwal’s Statements Several political leaders have also condemned Sabharwal’s comments. Recently, Telangana Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka reacted to Sabharwal’s remarks, stating that IAS officers should act responsibly. She criticized the senior official’s derogatory comments about differently-abled individuals, urging her to refrain from making such disparaging remarks. Seethakka argued that those who think differently-abled individuals are unfit due to their physical challenges reveal their own mental shortcomings.
Acknowledging the Competence of Differently-Abled Individuals Minister Seethakka highlighted that many differently-abled individuals have risen to prominent positions, and their capabilities should be recognized. She stressed the importance of using one’s intellect rather than physical abilities in the IAS. She also expressed confidence that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is aware of the issue and assured that she would personally bring it to his attention.
Smitha Sabharwal’s Feudal Mindset Minister Seethakka accused Sabharwal of having a feudal mindset and urged her to change her perspective. She emphasized that physical fitness is a gift from God and should not be a criterion for IAS or IPS roles. Such regressive thoughts are characteristic of those with a certain mentality, Seethakka noted, urging people to abandon such outdated views.
Demand for Government Action The controversy surrounding Sabharwal’s comments has led to calls for government action. Differently-abled individuals and their supporters have demanded that the government take a stand against Sabharwal’s views, which they perceive as discriminatory. The minister reiterated that undermining the abilities of differently-abled individuals is unacceptable and must be addressed promptly.
Conclusion: Respect and Support for Differently-Abled Persons In conclusion, the backlash against Smitha Sabharwal’s remarks highlights the need for greater sensitivity and respect towards differently-abled individuals. Minister Seethakka’s firm stance against such discriminatory comments underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting the achievements of differently-abled persons. Society must move towards inclusivity and appreciation for all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities.