SURENDER PASWAN vs STATE OF BIHAR .

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of the appointment of Chowkidars in Bihar, emphasizing that Article 16 of the Constitution mandates equal opportunity in public employment, as established in Yogender Pal Singh v. Union of India. The Court held that the Circular issued on 20.12.1995, allowing the appointment of legal heirs of Chowkidars, was unconstitutional as it contravened the principles of equal opportunity. Consequently, the Court quashed the order that terminated the appointments of selected candidates, affirming the need for adherence to constitutional provisions in public service appointments.