Complaints filed against IAS officer Smita Sabharwal for disability remarks
HYDERABAD: IAS officer Smita Sabharwal is facing significant criticism for her recent remarks on the quota for the disabled in All India Services. Jangaiah, the state president of the Vikalangula Hakkula Raksha Porata Samiti, filed a police complaint against her at the Ibrahimpatnam police station in Rangareddy district, alleging that her comments were disrespectful to the disabled community.
Police complaint filed by Vikalangula Hakkula Raksha Porata Samiti
Sabharwal is also facing a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The controversy began when she posted on X, questioning the necessity of a disability quota in the IAS and suggesting that individuals with disabilities might struggle to meet the demands of the service. Bakka Judson, the former chairperson of the AP Vikalangula Cooperative Finance Corporation, confirmed that the NHRC accepted his complaint against Sabharwal. Judson also filed a complaint with the Department of Personnel and Training, seeking action against the Smita Sabharwal.
The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) has voiced strong objections to Sabharwal’s comments. NPRD General Secretary Muralidharan described her remarks as deeply biased, highlighting that many have revealed their inherent prejudices and biases against the disabled in their responses. The situation continues to develop as various organizations and individuals call for accountability and action against Sabharwal.
Backlash from Bala Latha of CSB Academy
Previously, Bala Latha Mallavarapu of CSB IAS Academy issued a public challenge to Sabharwal in response to her remarks regarding the disability quota in IAS selection. During a press conference at Somajiguda Press Club, Mallavarapu dared Sabharwal to retake the UPSC exam and beat her score. Mallavarapu expressed strong disapproval of Sabharwal’s comments, questioning her qualifications to speak on disability issues. She argued that such remarks undermine judicial and parliamentary decisions and marginalize the disabled community further. Mallavarapu called for Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to take action against Sabharwal for civil service indiscipline.
Mallavarapu also highlighted the achievements of disabled individuals like S Jaipal Reddy and others awarded the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, stressing that disabilities should not be a basis for discrimination. She questioned the impact of Sabharwal’s fieldwork during her tenure under KCR’s regime, suggesting a lack of understanding of administration challenges faced by the disabled. In a bold move, Mallavarapu challenged Sabharwal to retake the civil services exam, asserting she could score higher. She demanded Sabharwal retract her comments within 24 hours, warning of a protest at Tank Bund if the government doesn’t respond by tomorrow.
