SHANKARSAN DASH vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court held that candidates included in the merit list for the Indian Police Service do not acquire an indefeasible right to appointment, as the notification for vacancies serves merely as an invitation to apply. The Court found that the authorities acted within their discretion in not filling general category vacancies after certain candidates did not join, and that the process followed for reserved categories was justified due to differing conditions. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the decision of the High Court.