CHIEF ENGINEER AND SECRETARY, ENGINEERINGDEPARTMENT, FOR AN vs K.S. BRAR & ANR. ETC.

The Supreme Court held that under Rule 12(5) of the Punjab Service of Engineers Class II P.W.D. (Buildings and Roadways Branch) Rules, 1965, seniority can be assigned from the date of deputation prior to absorption if it serves the public interest. The Court found that the Tribunal erred in not considering this provision, which led to the incorrect conclusion regarding the seniority of the appellant, who was absorbed into the Chandigarh Administration. The appeals were allowed, reinstating the seniority of the appellant from the date of his deputation.