The CSAT paper was introduced in the year 2011. What is thought-provoking is the fact that it took 3 years for the protestors to realize that the present format having CSAT paper is discriminatory. If one analysis this issue in the correct perspective then one will realise that this allegation of discrimination holds no water. It is hard to digest that the aspirants are protesting against the English comprehension of X standard level which is the basic level of English a civil service aspirant requires to know.
Further , some feel that logical reasoning and aptitude do provide level playing field to candidates from other streams like arts and commerce. One needs to understand that these exams are competitive in nature and hence topics like these are essential, so as to gauge the problem solving ability of the candidate. Allegation that the pattern discriminates candidates taking regional languages is absurd and unpalatable. The simple response to this allegation is that the critics of the present system should answer state civil services examination of their respective states if they feel regional aspiration overrides national importance.
I believe that the aspirants should respect the premier institution i.e the Union Public Service Commission which is also an autonomous body under the constitution of India. The institutional sanctity should be maintained. The Government should intervene and ensure that the autonomy of the UPSC is not compromised.
Kapil Phadte, Margao
