SC quashes Mayawati146;s 146;97 order

8216;8216;If the post was not reserved, in no way the 3rd respondent Bharti could have been promoted. He might not have come within the purview of zone of consideration,8217;8217; the Bench said.

8216;8216;This case points out how illegalities are committed by the state causing deprivation of legitimate right of promotion or more meritorious and senior candidates,8217;8217; it observed.

The Bench imposed a cost of Rs 25,000 each on the state and Bharti.

The petitioner R.S. Garg had approached the SC after the HC dismissed his petition.

Bharti, who joined as deputy director, factories administration on April 25, 1997, continued to occupy the post as the HC did not pass any stay order and is due to retire in May next year.