UPSC Candidate Denied Service Despite Even After Clearing The Exam 4 times.

The story of Kartik Kansal, a determined and brilliant individual with muscular dystrophy, highlights significant challenges and inconsistencies in the selection process for civil services in India. Despite clearing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations four times, Kansal has been denied any service, bringing to light crucial issues regarding disability inclusivity and fairness.

Kansal's Journey and Achievements

Early Life and Education Kartik Kansal, an IIT Roorkee graduate, has been using a wheelchair since he was 14 years old. His journey to becoming a scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is a testament to his resilience and intellect.

UPSC Examinations Kansal cleared the UPSC civil services examinations in 2019 (rank 813), 2021 (271), 2022 (784), and 2023 (829). His consistent performance showcases his dedication and capability, yet he has been repeatedly denied a position in the civil services.

Issues in the Selection Process

Disability Quota and Eligibility In 2021, Kansal ranked 271 in the UPSC examination, a rank that should have secured him a position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), as candidates ranked 272 and 273 were selected. However, muscular dystrophy was not included in the functional classification eligible for IAS at that time.

Vacancies and Unfilled Positions In 2019, Kansal's rank of 813 should have secured him a position as there were 15 vacancies for candidates with locomotor disabilities, but only 14 were filled. Similarly, in 2021, despite there being seven vacancies in the locomotor disability category, only four were filled. Kansal was the top candidate in this category.

Medical Board Assessment The medical board at AIIMS certified Kansal as having muscular weakness affecting both his arms and legs. Despite this, the board deemed him ineligible for IAS, a position for which individuals with both arms and legs affected are otherwise eligible. The board noted that Kansal could perform manipulations with his fingers, move with a motorised wheelchair, and had no impairments in seeing, hearing, speaking, communicating, reading, or writing. However, he could not stand, walk, pull, push, lift, crouch, bend, kneel, jump, or climb. Originally certified with a 60% disability, the AIIMS medical board reassessed it at 90%.

Advocacy and Support

Public Support and Advocacy Retired IAS officer Sanjeev Gupta has been a vocal supporter of Kansal, highlighting his story on social media. Gupta pointed out the injustice in Kansal's situation, emphasizing that despite meeting all physical requirements for IAS and IRS positions and not even using a scribe for his exams, Kansal was denied service.

Comparative Analysis Kansal’s case gained more attention amid the controversy involving IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who allegedly misused the disability quota. This juxtaposition underscored the inconsistencies and potential biases within the system.

Implications and the Way Forward

Systemic Inconsistencies Kansal’s case reveals systemic inconsistencies and biases within the civil services selection process, particularly concerning the treatment of candidates with disabilities. The exclusion of muscular dystrophy from the list of conditions eligible for IAS despite clear capabilities suggests a need for policy review and updates.

Need for Inclusive Policies There is a pressing need for more inclusive policies that accurately reflect the capabilities and limitations of individuals with disabilities. This includes revisiting the medical classifications and ensuring that all vacancies, especially those earmarked for disabled candidates, are filled appropriately.

Role of Advocacy and Public Awareness The support from individuals like Sanjeev Gupta and the public attention garnered by Kansal’s story are crucial in driving change. Advocacy and increased awareness can pressure authorities to reassess and amend unfair practices and policies.

Kartik Kansal's story is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing equal opportunities. Despite his remarkable achievements and consistent performance in the UPSC examinations, systemic biases and outdated policies have hindered his progress. There is an urgent need for comprehensive policy reviews and a commitment to inclusivity to ensure that deserving candidates like Kansal are given the opportunities they have earned.