V. VENKATA PRASAD vs HIGH COURT OF A.P. .

The Supreme Court examined the Andhra Pradesh State Higher Judicial Service Special Rules for Adhoc Appointments, 2001, particularly Rule 2 regarding the appointment of District and Sessions Judges on an ad hoc basis. The Court held that appointments must be made based on merit and ability, with seniority considered only when merit is equal, and clarified that ad hoc appointees do not gain permanent status or preferential rights under Rule 7. The Court upheld the validity of the 2001 Rules and the appointments made under them, dismissing the appeal.