SHANKER RAJU vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court held that the refusal to consider the petitioner's application for reappointment as a Judicial Member of the Central Administrative Tribunal, based on the completion of a 10-year tenure, was unjustified. The Court interpreted the provisions of the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985, particularly in light of the amendments made in 2006, emphasizing that eligibility should not be negated solely due to the duration of prior service. The Court directed the respondents to consider the petitioner's application on its merits, thereby reinforcing the principle of fair opportunity in public service appointments.