Case Note & Summary
The dispute arose from the selection process for a T.V. serial based on the life of Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, initiated by Doordarshan. The petitioner, Fasih Chaudhary, submitted his project by the deadline of May 7, 1986, while the respondent, Gulzar, had submitted only a theme proposal earlier in February 1986. The petitioner alleged discrimination in the selection process, claiming that his project was unjustly overlooked in favor of Gulzar's. The High Court dismissed the writ petition, finding no merit in the allegations of discrimination. The petitioner then sought special leave to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision, stating that the selection process was fair and objective, and that the petitioner’s proposal was deemed not attractive or interesting enough. The court noted that all proposals were considered by a committee and that the decision-making process was free from malice or favoritism. The court ultimately dismissed the special leave petition, affirming the High Court's ruling and the legitimacy of Doordarshan's selection process.
Headnote
A) Administrative Law - Fair Play in Action - Requirement of Fairness in Administrative Decisions - Articles 226, 136 of the Constitution - The court emphasized that administrative bodies must act fairly and without malice, ensuring that their decisions do not reflect favoritism. The court found that the selection process for the T.V. serial was conducted fairly and reasonably, dismissing claims of discrimination against the petitioner (Paras 285-287).
Issue of Consideration
Whether the selection process by Doordarshan for the T.V. serial was discriminatory and arbitrary.
Final Decision
The Supreme Court dismissed the special leave petition, affirming the High Court's decision that the selection process was fair and without discrimination.
Law Points
- Discrimination in selection process
- Fair play in administrative action
- Objectivity in decision-making
