Today, On 19th November, in the District Judge Appointments case, Supreme Court says Selection Grade follows merit cum seniority and orders all States and UTs to amend service rules within three months, ensuring uniform implementation of new roster, seniority, and promotion guidelines across the judicial services system.
Senior Advocate V.V. Giri told the Supreme Court that promotions in the Higher Judicial Service hinge on seniority but must also respect merit and experience. The Bench, led by CJI BR Gavai, is weighing how to balance promotee and direct recruit judges in career progression.
The Supreme Court’s Constitution Bench, led by CJI BR Gavai, wrapped up the All India Judges Association hearing, questioning if promotions based solely on seniority kill merit. Justice Surya Kant’s sharp remarks reignited the debate on fairness in judicial career growth.
The Supreme Court expressed concern that “brilliant candidates” quit lower judiciary due to years of stagnation without promotion. A Constitution Bench is hearing if prior Bar experience can count towards eligibility for district judge posts under Article 233.
Today(on 17th May), The Supreme Court has upheld the promotion policy of the Gujarat High Court for the District Judge cadre under the 65% quota, based on merit-cum-seniority. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra lifted the stay on promoting 68 judicial officers to district judges.
