In Brief
The Supreme Court upheld the cancellation of candidatures of five persons selected for police constable positions in Chandigarh after they disclosed involvement in criminal cases. Although the candidates were acquitted by courts, the acquittals were based on benefit of doubt due to hostile witnesses and prosecution flaws—not honourable acquittals. The Court held that acquittal does not automatically entitle appointment in disciplined forces. The Screening Committee retained authority to assess suitability based on criminal antecedents and character. Since police forces require impeccable integrity, the Committee's rejection decision was final and could not be overturned by courts unless shown to be mala fide.
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