UNION OF INDIA vs K.N. SIVADAS .

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of the Reserved Trained Pool (RTP) scheme under the Post and Telegraphs Department, which was established by a circular dated October 30, 1980. The Court held that the RTP scheme, which allowed for the creation of a standing pool of trained candidates to address staff shortages, was valid until its abolition on March 4, 1986. The Court emphasized that the absorption of candidates from the RTP into regular vacancies must follow the merit order as stipulated in the circular, thereby reinforcing the principles of fair employment practices under Service Law.