‘Selection process should identify well-rounded public servants’: High court backs Haryana screening process

The petitioner, a civil engineering postgraduate, had argued that the revised syllabus removed core engineering subjects that were part of an earlier recruitment cycle, and therefore lacked a rational link to the technical nature of the post, which requires a degree in civil, chemical or environmental engineering.

Rejecting this contention, the court said examinations based on narrow technical syllabi tend to encourage rote learning rather than evaluating the qualities needed in public service. “Such an approach often fails to account for creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence and other such skills that are essential for effective administration,” the court observed.

It described the shift to broader general awareness as “a welcome step” aimed at assessing “overall intelligence quotient and situational judgment”. Such an approach, the ruling noted, is more likely to produce “well-rounded public servants capable of nuanced application of knowledge.”

The court further noted that the role requires officers to be aware of scientific developments, socio-economic trends and public policy changes. It accepted the state’s argument that the screening test is only a qualifying stage and does not determine final merit, and is therefore proportionate for shortlisting candidates from a large pool of similarly qualified applicants.

The bench also recorded that a previous recruitment cycle had resulted in several vacancies remaining unfilled and that the current screening format was designed to expedite appointments.

Referring to Supreme Court precedents, the court reiterated that it would not interfere with policy decisions of recruiting bodies unless they are shown to be arbitrary or unreasonable. Finding no such infirmity, it dismissed the petition along with pending applications.

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