Authority: Supreme Court of India
Order Date: 28-09-2026
Case Overview
- Petitioners: Managing Director Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Ltd (MESCOM) and others; Respondent: Sri J S Sridhara.
- The petition arises from an impugned final judgment and order dated 17‑04‑2026 of the High Court of Karnataka (WA No. 1399/2025) concerning the respondent’s eligibility for the post of Junior Assistant.
- MESCOM, an autonomous body governed by the Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Recruitment Regulations, 2002, submitted that the minimum qualification for Junior Assistant is a PUC (10+2) or an equivalent examination, or a Diploma in Accountancy and Auditing or in Accountancy and Costing awarded by the State Council of Vocational Education, Government of Karnataka.
- The respondent holds an SSLC certificate and a Diploma in Automobile, which MESCOM argues is not equivalent to the required PUC qualification or the specified accounting diplomas. MESCOM further contends that a Government circular equating other diplomas does not apply to its organization due to its own recruitment regulations.
Final Outcome
1. The Court condoned the delay in filing the Special Leave Petition (IA No. 279850/2026).
2. The Court noted the petitioner’s submission regarding the specific qualification requirements.
3. The Court held that the respondent’s automobile diploma is distinguishable from the required accounting diploma and therefore not equivalent.
4. The Court ordered that a notice be issued, returnable within six weeks.
5. The effect and operation of the impugned order from the High Court shall remain stayed pending further proceedings.
Topics: Employment Qualification, Supreme Court Order