In Brief
The State of Manipur initiated a selection process for Assistant Lineman posts in 1999, but imposed a complete ban on direct recruitment before results could be declared due to financial crisis. In 2001, the government cancelled all pending selections. Respondents filed writ petitions seeking appointment, which the High Court allowed, directing adjustment in newly advertised Junior System Assistant posts. The Supreme Court held that selection results do not create an indefeasible right to appointment. The 2001 policy decision was bona fide and justified by financial stringency, not arbitrary. Respondents have no legal right to appointment based on cancelled 1999 selections. The High Court's judgment was set aside and the appeals allowed.
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