In Brief
A State policy that preferentially allotted government land at basic rates to MPs, MLAs, IAS officers, Judges, and journalists violated constitutional equality. The Supreme Court held that while States may classify citizens, such classification must serve a legitimate public purpose and meet substantive equality standards. The Court found the policy arbitrary because it benefited already-privileged individuals while denying benefits to the disadvantaged, contrary to Articles 14 and the welfare State's purpose. The policy was quashed, and the State was directed to refund all amounts paid by allottees with interest.
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