The Punjab & Haryana High Court directed Panjab University to allow a candidate to appear in the interview provisionally, scheduled for selection of Assistant Professor for History after it was stated that the candidate was not called for the interview despite meeting the eligibility criteria and clearing the NET exam twice.
Brief Facts:
The present writ petition was filed by a candidate seeking directions against Sri Guru Gobind Singh College, Panjab University to allow her to appear in the interview for the regular post of Assistant Professor (History).
Contentions of the Petitioner:
It was contended that being qualified, the petitioner applied for the post of Assistant Professor (History subject), but to date, she had not received any interview call letter, though, the process of the interview had to start from 11.01.2024. The petitioner argued that she was twice UGC - NET qualified and holds an M.Phil Degree and PhD Degree (yet to be awarded) from JNU New Delhi along with more than 7 years of teaching experience in History subject, out of which more than three years were with the Respondent College.
Contentions of the Respondent:
The learned counsel appearing on behalf of the respondent informed the Court that a Committee of about 5 members was constituted to examine the eligibility of the petitioner for the advertised post and after making lot of deliberations, it concluded that the petitioner was not eligible for consideration for the post of Assistant Professor, History which has been advertised by the college.
Observations of the Court:
The court taking note of all the facts and circumstances directed that the name of the petitioner be considered as having been included in the list already published, by the College (respondent No.3) or the Panjab University (Respondent No.5) for the purpose of starting the process of interview.
The Court directed the respondents to allow her to join the process of interview and said any such interview would be considered as a provisional interview which would be subject to the final decision of the present plea and further directed that in case, the petitioner is found suitable for the post, the result be produced in a sealed cover before the bench on the next date of hearing.
The decision of the Court:
The court deferred to February 09, for further consideration.
Case Title: Akanksha Qayum vs U.T. Chandigarh and ors.
Coram: Hon’ble Mr Justice Sanjay Vashisth
Advocate for the Applicant: Mr. Vivek Sheoran
Advocate for the Respondent: Mr. Gagneshwar Walia
Read Judgment @LatestLaws.com
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