S.SETHURAMAN vs R.VENKATARAMAN

The Supreme Court ruled that promotions to the post of Headmaster in Tamil Nadu schools must adhere to Rule 15(4) of the Tamil Nadu Recognised Private Schools (Regulation) Act, 1973, which mandates that promotions be based on merit and ability, with seniority considered only when merit is equal. The Court upheld the Managing Committee's decision to promote the appellant over the respondent based on a comparative evaluation of merit, despite the respondent's prior position as Secretary in another school. The Court dismissed the writ petition challenging the promotion, affirming the validity of the promotion process as per the statutory provisions.