UMA SHANKAR SHARMA vs THE UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

The Supreme Court held that the terms and conditions of service for the appointment of an Inspector of Central Excise should be construed reasonably, as per the Central Civil Service (Temporary Service) Rules, 1965. The Court emphasized that a technical interpretation could undermine the intent of appointing meritorious sportsmen. The appellant, who qualified and was selected to represent his university but could not participate due to illness, was deemed eligible for the position, leading to the overturning of the termination of his service. The appeal was allowed, and the High Court's dismissal of the writ petition was set aside.