Quota system in public service exams

SECURING a class-1 government job is a cherished dream of the educated youth. Every year a large number of employment seekers take part in the BCS exam to realise the dream. But ironically the situation that the intending candidates have to face, is far from being friendly. They have to face an uneven competition due to quota allocation for different segments of the population.

Only 44 per cent of vacant positions are allocated on the basis of merit and the remaining 56 per cent are reserved for various sections and communities. It is therefore being deemed an impossibility to secure a class-1 job where 194 candidates are vying for each position on merit basis as opposed to 23 candidates for each position under the quota system. Because of the irrational nature of competition, life-long dreams of a large number of candidates remain unfulfilled. If we look at other countries, we shall find that quota facilities are limited to a few grace marks only and all the candidates have to qualify for a position on merit basis. Since class-1 government jobs are meant to serve the country and its people, efforts of the government should be channeled to recruit the best possible candidates. The quota system is an impediment on its way and it is thus depriving many deserving candidates from having a healthy competition.

It is high time that the policy makers should remove the barrier of irrational competition and open the door for evaluating the candidates on merit only.

Abul Khaer

Department of Zoology

Govt. Saadat College, Tangail

[email protected]