In Brief
Two respondents were appointed as sweepers on compassionate grounds following their fathers' deaths. Years later, claiming higher qualifications, they sought appointment as Junior Assistants through writ petitions. The High Court allowed their claims. The Supreme Court reversed, holding that compassionate appointment is a humanitarian concession—not a right—granted solely to relieve immediate financial crisis. Once accepted, no further claim for a higher post arises. Mere eligibility for a higher post creates no entitlement. The respondents' significant delay in seeking relief was also fatal. The Court emphasised that allowing such claims would create 'endless compassion' contrary to the policy's purpose and violate constitutional principles of public recruitment.
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