In Brief
The Supreme Court dismissed Civil Appeals by Reserve Sub-Inspectors (RSIs) of the Andhra Pradesh Police, challenging their ineligibility for appointment as Inspectors. The RSIs had been appointed by transfer to Sub-Inspector (Civil) positions while retaining seniority from their original appointment dates. However, under the A.P. Police Service Rules, appointment to the rank of Inspector requires 6 years of service specifically as Sub-Inspector (Civil)—not counting prior service as RSI. The Court held that transfer and recruitment by transfer are distinct concepts; that seniority cannot override eligibility requirements; and that the uniform application of the 6-year eligibility condition does not violate Article 14 of the Constitution. Eligibility conditions must be satisfied before seniority becomes relevant.
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