SUNIL KUMAR SINGH vs UNION OF INDIA .

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) and the Patna High Court, affirming that the appointment of the appellant as Extra Departmental Delivery Agent (EDDA) was not legal due to the existence of a criminal charge against him, which posed a risk of criminalization of the government office. The Court noted that while merit is important, it cannot be the sole criterion for appointment, especially when public integrity is at stake. The Court held that fresh selection should be made considering candidates other than the appellant, as the appointment was based on executive instructions rather than statutory rules.