AJAY KUMAR DAS vs STATE OF ORISSA .

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of pay fixation for the appellant, an Assistant Engineer, under Rule 74(b) of the Orissa Service Code, as opposed to a Government Circular dated April 16, 1971. The Court held that the pay fixation must adhere to Rule 74(b), ensuring that the appellant's pay reflects his last drawn salary as a Sub-Assistant Engineer, thus preventing any unjust reduction in pay. The Court upheld the Tribunal's decision to fix the appellant's pay accordingly, emphasizing the importance of fair pay protection for employees promoted from lower ranks.