THE STATE OF PUNJAB AND ORS. vs MANOHAR LAL MIRCHEA

The Supreme Court addressed the validity of amendments made to the Punjab Superior Judicial Service Rules regarding retirement benefits, specifically Rule 4.2, which was challenged for violating Article 14 of the Constitution. The Court held that the retrospective application of the amended rules was arbitrary and unconstitutional, affirming the High Court's decision that the cut-off date of 26.10.60 was invalid. Consequently, the appeal by the State of Punjab was dismissed, upholding the rights of the respondent to claim benefits under the amended rules.