Activists working for the rights of the disabled have criticised the comments of India's G-20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant and IAS officer Smita Sabharwal on misuse of reservation for the disabled in the UPSC exam and the need to review it.
These social activists say that disability should not be underestimated so much that the capabilities of the disabled are questioned. They tried to strengthen their argument by giving examples of top doctors, soldiers and businessmen.
This controversy has arisen over the allegations of misconduct against IAS probationer Pooja Khedkar. Pooja is accused of misusing her disability as well as OBC reserved quota to apply for UPSC. UPSC has registered a police case against Khedkar. It is alleged that she has resorted to fake identity to get more chances in the UPSC examination. Kant suggested a review of fraud in UPSC after the provision of reservation for the disabled, saying, “Such cases should be investigated and strict action should be taken.” The basic principle of selection through competition should not be compromised. He also said that he is in favor of SC, ST, OBC reservation. That provision should be continuous with the provision related to crematorium.