The Supreme Court recently struck down the Haryana government’s policy of awarding bonus marks to state residents appearing for recruitment exams. While the government respects the apex court’s decision, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has hinted at steps to legally contest this ruling.
As per official sources, the CM emphasized that the 2018 policy aimed to help underprivileged sections of society access government jobs. It allowed extra marks for candidates from poor socio-economic backgrounds, families without existing government employees, and an annual income under Rs. 1.8 lakh.
Saini clarified the intent was promoting social justice as per the ideal of “antyodaya”, which focuses on uplifting those at the bottom of the economic pyramid. He noted the current dispensation is committed to protecting marginalized communities’ rights.
The CM hinted the possibility of a review petition challenging the SC order. Alternatively, the state may introduce a bill in the legislative assembly to continue providing support to deprived candidates. No further comments were made on the exact legal course of action being explored.
The ruling BJP describes the bonus marks scheme as a populist move benefiting the underserved masses. However, the opposition Congress has slammed it as a failing policy only fueling litigations and confusing youth. They have accused the government of misleading jobseekers with poorly drafted recruitment rules that could not stand up to scrutiny.
With over 23,000 past appointments now under a cloud, political sparring on this issue is likely to intensify. The CM’s assertions indicate the state will make all efforts to legally safeguard the interests of poor and rural candidates aspiring for government posts.
