The Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to appoint international cricketer Rinku Singh as Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) has stirred controversy, as the post—meant to lead and reform the district’s primary education system—is being offered to someone who has not cleared even the matriculation (Class 10) examination.
Under normal circumstances, the post of BSA requires a postgraduate degree and is filled through a competitive process by the Public Service Commission. Rinku, who shot to fame after India’s gold medal win in cricket at the 2023 Asian Games, falls far short of these academic qualifications.
The government, however, is invoking a special provision under the Uttar Pradesh Direct Recruitment Rules for International Medal Winners, which allows international athletes to be appointed to government posts across departments, bypassing traditional recruitment norms. Education department officials say the rule aims to honor sporting excellence and engage star athletes as role models for the youth.
Still, many have questioned how someone with no formal academic background can be entrusted with a role so central to shaping the education policy and administration of an entire district. Critics argue that this dilutes the seriousness of the post and sends the wrong message in a state already struggling to raise educational standards.
Officials counter the criticism by saying Rinku’s role would be symbolic and motivational. “Such appointments help bring visibility and attract attention to the department’s efforts. Rinku will also serve as a brand ambassador,” an official said.
However, under service rules, Singh will need to acquire the minimum required educational qualification within seven years if he wishes to be considered for promotion. Otherwise, he will remain at the lowest rank within the service.
Meanwhile, Rinku’s family is celebrating the news. “This is a proud moment. Rinku keeps making us and the country proud,” said his father, Khanchand. Rinku’s fiancée, Samajwadi Party MP Priya Saroj, was also congratulated by family members. The couple got engaged earlier this month.
Rinku Singh’s name was among seven athletes approved for direct appointment by a high-level selection committee headed by Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh. His appointment may be legal under the existing rules, but the debate it has sparked underscores a deeper tension between honoring sporting achievement and maintaining merit-based standards in key public service roles.
