SAJID KHAN Vs. L. RAHMATHULLAH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) We are yet again seized with the common question in recruitment jurisprudence, whether the appellants' qualifications for the post in question meet the standard prescribed in the recruitment notification. This issue is not novel, and this Court has established clear guidelines for judicial review and restraint in determining equivalency. Following these principles, having carefully examined the decision of the employer (U.T. of Lakshadweep) to recognize the appellants' qualifications as equivalent, we found it to be both justifiable and reasonable. Having considered the governing recruitment rules, submissions of the learned counsel and relevant precedents, we allow the appeal. Consequently, we set aside the High Court's decision, which had held that the appellants lacked equivalent qualifications and resulted in the termination of their appointments.

(2.) Facts: The brief facts leading to this appeal are as follows. The Union Territory of Lakshadweep, Department of Electricity had issued an advertisement for recruitment to the post of Junior Engineer (Electrical), a Group 'C' post. The required qualification was specified to be a Degree in Electrical Engineering from a recognized university, or a Diploma in Electrical Engineering from a recognized institution with two years of experience in any of the fields specified under the relevant recruitment rules.

(3.) The appellants are all Diploma-holders in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, whereas the respondents hold a Diploma in Electrical Engineering. The appellants and the respondents had participated in the selection process. Pursuant to the recruitment process, the authority published a select list on 3/9/2008 as per which the appellants were declared selected.