C. B. MUTHAMMA vs UNION OF INDIA & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that Rule 8(2) and Rule 18(4) of the Indian Foreign Service (Conduct and Discipline) Rules 1961 and the Indian Foreign Service (Recruitment, Cadre Seniority and Promotion) Rules 1961 are discriminatory against women, violating Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India. The Court emphasized that both male and female members should be treated equally regarding marriage and domestic commitments, and that the existing rules reflect a systemic bias against women in public service. The petition was dismissed, but the Court's observations highlighted the need for reform to eliminate such discrimination.