The Rajasthan High Court has recently issued a significant directive concerning the regularization of government employees appointed on an irregular basis as far back as 1979. This decision mandates the state government to regularize eligible employees who have been serving in sanctioned posts for over a decade, even if their initial appointments did not strictly adhere to procedural norms.

The court emphasized that denying regularization based on the initial nature of employment—such as daily wage or ad hoc positions—is arbitrary and violates Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution, which guarantee equality before the law and equal opportunity in public employment.

This ruling aligns with the Supreme Court’s observations in the Uma Devi case, where it was held that irregular appointments (not illegal ones) of duly qualified individuals in sanctioned posts, who have served for ten years or more without court intervention, should be considered for regularization as a one-time measure.

The High Court’s decision underscores the importance of fair treatment and the recognition of long-standing service by employees, ensuring that administrative lapses do not hinder their rightful benefits and career progression.

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