H.V. PARDASANI, ETC. vs UNION OF INDIA & ORS.

The Supreme Court upheld the validity of the Central Secretariat Service Rules, specifically Rule 12 and Regulation 5(2)(c), which govern promotions from Section Officers to Under Secretaries. The Court ruled that the combined seniority list of Section Officers, which includes both promotees and direct recruits, is consistent with Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India. The petitioners' challenge to the seniority fixation process was dismissed, affirming that the statutory scheme for promotions is lawful and does not violate constitutional provisions.