D.P. Das vs Union Of India & Ors

The Supreme Court held that the preparation of a combined seniority list for Specialist Medical Officers (SMOs) by the UPSC must adhere to the principles of merit and discipline-wise seniority as per the recommendations of the Fourth Pay Commission. The Court found that the seniority list published on 21.8.1992 was flawed as it did not consider the relative seniority based on performance and age, leading to the quashing of the list. The Court directed the authorities to prepare a new seniority list in accordance with the established criteria, thereby upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in public service appointments.