The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court addressed the issue concerning the denial of approval for the appointment of a Laboratory Attendant by the Education Officer of Bhandara. The court noted that the rejection was based on improper application of reservation rules and an incorrect combination of job positions. This decision, which followed an earlier directive for reconsideration, emphasizes the need for adherence to legal guidelines on reservations and the importance of proper roster management in educational institutions.

1. Introduction

   • Overview of the petition filed by Devi Saraswati Mahila Bahu-Uddeshiya Shikshan Sanstha against the State of Maharashtra and others.

2. Background of the Case

   • Details of the initial refusal by the Education Officer to approve the appointment.
   • Previous court ruling in Writ Petition No. 2998/2021 directing reconsideration of the approval process.

3. Contentions of the Petitioners

   • Arguments presented by the petitioners’ counsel regarding the improper rejection of the appointment.
   • Emphasis on the separate status of the Laboratory Attendant post from other non-teaching positions.

4. Respondents' Defense

   • Justifications provided by the Education Officer for clubbing the Laboratory Attendant position with the Peon posts.
   • Reference to the approved roster and reservation requirements.

5. Court's Analysis

   • Examination of the application of Article 16 of the Constitution and the Maharashtra Employees of Private Schools (Conditions of Service) Regulation Act, 1977.
   • The court's interpretation of the rules governing reservations and roster management in educational institutions.

6. Judgment

   • The court's ruling to quash the order dated 31-10-2023, criticizing the Education Officer's handling of the appointment process.
   • Instructions for the proper application of reservation policies in future appointments.

7. Conclusion

   • Implications of the judgment for educational institutions and the enforcement of reservation laws.