K. SUBHASH BABU vs ENGINEER-IN-CHIEF,ARMY HEADQUARTERS &ORS

The Supreme Court addressed the entitlement of appellants to three advanced increments based on their higher qualification of a Degree in Engineering, as per circulars dated 4th February 1969 and 2nd June 1971 issued by the Ministry of Defence. The Court held that these benefits were withdrawn by a subsequent circular dated 18th March 1974, following the recommendations of the Third Pay Commission, which stated that Engineering graduates appointed after 1st December 1973 to posts requiring only an Engineering Diploma would not be eligible for such increments. Consequently, the Court upheld the withdrawal of the increments, affirming the decision of the Kerala High Court.