Case Note & Summary
The case involved a challenge to the guidelines issued by the University of Lucknow regarding admissions to Post-Graduate Medical Courses in Uttar Pradesh. The petitioners contended that the college-wise merit list prepared from institutional candidates was discriminatory and violated Article 14 of the Constitution. They argued that in most states, a combined merit list was prepared after a common entrance examination, allowing for fairer admissions. The Supreme Court, referencing previous judgments, found that the college-wise preference was arbitrary and struck it down, directing the State to create a combined merit list for all candidates. The Court emphasized that no vested rights existed for candidates based on the impugned guidelines, as no admissions had yet been made. The ruling mandated that the State Government issue a notification for admissions based on the combined merit list and allow candidates to express their preferences for specialities. The decision reinforced the principle that merit should not be sacrificed for convenience, ensuring that all eligible candidates had equal opportunities regardless of their college of origin.
Headnote
A) Constitutional Law - Discrimination in Admission Process - College-wise Merit List - Violation of Article 14 - Constitution of India, 1950, Article 14 - The Supreme Court struck down the provision for preparing a college-wise merit list for admissions to Post-Graduate Medical Courses, directing the State to prepare a combined merit list for all colleges, as the existing rule was found to be arbitrary and discriminatory. Held that merit must prevail over institutional preference (Paras 364-370).
Issue of Consideration
Whether the preparation of a college-wise merit list for admissions to Post-Graduate Medical Courses is discriminatory and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution.
Final Decision
The Supreme Court struck down the college-wise merit list provision and directed the State to prepare a combined merit list for admissions to Post-Graduate Medical Courses, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates.
Law Points
- Discrimination
- Article 14
- Merit List
- Combined Entrance Examination
- Institutional Preference
