G.S. LAMBA & ORS. vs UNION OF INDIA & ORS.

The Supreme Court addressed the recruitment and seniority rules under the Indian Foreign Service Branch (Recruitment, Cadre, Seniority and Promotion) Rules, 1964, specifically Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India. The Court held that the quota for direct recruitment could not be relaxed without valid reasons, and that promotees who were temporarily appointed do not gain seniority over later recruits unless specified by the rules. The judgment emphasized adherence to statutory provisions in service matters, reinforcing the principle of equality in public employment.