Case Note & Summary
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) challenged a decision of the Maharashtra Administrative Tribunal, Aurangabad Bench, in Original Application No.769/2011 decided on 13.12.2011. The Tribunal had allowed the application of Respondent No.1, Tejrao Bhagaji Gadekar, declaring that he had achieved the benchmark for the general category prescribed by the Commission for eligibility to appear for an interview. The MPSC had undertaken a selection process for 74 vacancies of Education Officer in State services. A screening test was conducted, and results were declared on 17.07.2011. The Commission published a first answer key, invited objections, and after considering them with expert assistance, published a revised answer key. Candidates' performance was evaluated based on the revised key. Respondent No.1 approached the Tribunal contending that the revised answer key was properly adopted. The Tribunal allowed his application. The MPSC filed a writ petition challenging the Tribunal's decision. The High Court, after hearing the parties, dismissed the petition, holding that the Tribunal's decision was correct and the Commission's challenge lacked merit. The court noted that the revised answer key was published after due process, and the Tribunal's declaration that Respondent No.1 had achieved the benchmark was justified.
Headnote
A) Service Law - Selection Process - Revised Answer Key - The Maharashtra Public Service Commission conducted a screening test for Education Officer posts and published a revised answer key after considering objections with expert assistance. The Tribunal declared a candidate eligible for interview based on the revised key. The High Court upheld the Tribunal's decision, holding that the Commission's challenge lacked merit as the revised key was properly adopted. (Paras 2-4)
Issue of Consideration
Whether the Maharashtra Administrative Tribunal was justified in declaring that Respondent No.1 had achieved the benchmark for general category prescribed by the Commission for holding him eligible to appear for the interview.
Final Decision
The High Court dismissed the writ petition, upholding the Tribunal's order. Rule discharged with no order as to costs.
Law Points
- Administrative Tribunal's jurisdiction
- Revised answer key
- Eligibility for interview
- Benchmark for general category
- Maharashtra Public Service Commission selection process
