DEPARTMENT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYATS vs DHARAM PAL

The Supreme Court examined the legality of the Punjab and Haryana High Court's order granting pay scale benefits to the respondent for officiating posts of Superintendent Grade II and I, despite restrictions in prior orders. The Court held that the High Court erred in relying on Pritam Singh Dhaliwal v. State of Punjab, as the respondent's entitlement was governed by the Punjab Civil Services Rules, which impose specific conditions for such benefits. The appeal was allowed, overturning the High Court's decision and emphasizing adherence to the stipulated rules.