S K SACHDEVAS Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) These three writ petitions challenge the appointments made by Respondent No. 1, Air India Limited ('AIL'), to the post of Assistant Manager (Security) from amongst its serving permanent employees of the Security Department pursuant to a Staff Notice dated 2 nd May 2003.

(2.) On 26 th July 2002, the AIL invited applications from the permanent employees of Security Department for filling up vacancies in, as well as maintain a wait list for, the post of Assistant Manager (Security). The eligibility criteria was that the applicant had to be a graduate in the category of Officer-Security/Assistant Officer-Security with a minimum of ten years of experience in the Security Department of AIL or possess a post-graduate qualification with a minimum of five years of experience in the Security Department of AIL. The procedure for selection was that all eligible candidates were to be called for a written test. Those qualifying in the written test would be required to appear in a group discussion/ interview. Based on the performance in the written test and group discussion/personal interview, a selection list of suitable candidates would be prepared for appointment to the post of Assistant Manager (Security).

(3.) Although there were roll numbers issued for the written examination to some of those who applied pursuant to the Staff Notice dated 26 th July 2002, it is not clear whether any written examination was in fact held pursuant thereto. Nevertheless, another Staff Notice dated 2 nd May 2003 was issued by AIL again inviting applications for the post of Assistant Manager (Security). Those who had applied pursuant to the earlier notice dated 26 th July 2002 were required to apply afresh. Both Staff Notices dated 26 th July 2002 and 2 nd May 2003 stated that reservations as per the Presidential Directive would be applicable in respect of SC/ST/OBC in the percentage of SC -15%, ST-7 % and OBC-27%.