Thiruvananthapuram: A group of representatives from backward classes, minority, Dalit, OBC and other socially under-represented communities has urged leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to intervene in the recent reconstitution of the state planning board, alleging inadequate social and professional representation.In a representation submitted to Gandhi, the signatories sought corrective measures to ensure that the composition of the planning board reflects Keralam’s social diversity, professional expertise and constitutional principles of inclusion and equal opportunity.The letter said the state has a large pool of accomplished academics, professionals, administrators, scientists and social experts from various communities, including backward classes, Muslims, Dalits and historically under-represented Hindu and Christian OBC communities. However, it alleged that adequate representation from these sections was not reflected in the newly constituted board.The group also raised concern over the absence of women among the political appointees, despite the availability of eminent women scholars, economists, administrators and planning experts in the state.The signatories said the planning board played a crucial role in long-term development planning, evidence-based policy formulation, research and evaluation of govt programmes. They argued that appointments to the institution should therefore take into account professional competence, expertise, relevant experience, integrity and broad social representation.The representation questioned whether adequate weightage was given to professional qualifications and demonstrated expertise in the recent appointments. It sought greater public scrutiny of the credentials of some individuals appointed as experts.The signatories urged Gandhi to examine the concerns objectively and seek steps to ensure wider representation of Keralam’s diverse social and professional communities.The representation was signed by 13 persons, including former directors of backward classes development department V R Joshi and V S Mohammed Ibrahim, former minority welfare department director A B Moideenkutty and representatives of various social organisations.
