In Brief
Six advocates challenged their exclusion from a 2008 direct recruitment examination for the Punjab Superior Judicial Service, claiming defects in the recruitment process. The Supreme Court dismissed their appeals. Although they ranked 11-16 out of merits and the advertisement stated posts were subject to variation, the Court held that candidates cannot challenge a process after appearing without prior objection. A post that fell vacant later due to judicial elevation need not be included in the original recruitment. Appearance on a merit list does not guarantee appointment, and the recruitment authority may decline to fill vacancies. The cadre strength figure used for advertisement (107 posts, not later figures) was the relevant basis. The Court rejected all grounds and upheld the recruitment.
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