In Brief
In 1997, the Union of India selected three candidates for Technician posts under the SC category. The respondent, placed at Serial No. 1 in the Reserved Panel (waitlist), challenged his non-selection. In 1999, the Union made a statement before the Tribunal that he would be considered for future SC vacancies. The respondent later sought appointment, and the High Court directed his absorption from 2013. The Supreme Court held that placement in a waitlist creates no vested right once all selected candidates join. The 1999 statement could not be enforced as it would violate Recruitment Rules and prejudice fresh recruitment. The Court allowed the appeal, setting aside the High Court's direction for absorption.
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