Higher Qualification Cannot Disqualify Candidates for Government Jobs, Rules High Court
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has delivered a significant judgment. It clarifies that possessing qualifications higher than the minimum prescribed for a job cannot disqualify a candidate. Justice Harpreet Singh Brar made this clear while setting aside an order from the Moga Municipal Corporation.
Court Quashes Moga MC's Rejection Order
Moga Municipal Corporation rejected the candidature of Lakhvinder Singh. They did this solely because he failed to submit his Class VIII certificate. Lakhvinder had applied for the post of 'beldar', a field-level employee. The recruitment advertisement required a minimum qualification of middle school level with Punjabi as a subject.
Justice Brar observed a key fact. Lakhvinder Singh submitted proof of higher educational qualifications in Punjabi. He cleared Punjabi language examinations at both matriculation and senior secondary levels. His marks exceeded the prescribed minimum. This meant he not only fulfilled but surpassed the eligibility requirements.
Higher Education is a Boon, Not a Bane
The High Court referred to its own 2010 ruling. It reiterated a powerful principle. Higher qualification provides better knowledge and a better sense of insight. It equips a person with a superior understanding of issues and problems. The court stated unequivocally that such qualification cannot be a 'bane'. It must be considered a 'boon'.
Rejecting the corporation's stand, the court held a clear view. The intent behind prescribing the Punjabi language qualification was to ensure functional proficiency. The petitioner clearly possessed this proficiency. The court emphasised a critical point. Higher qualifications cannot be treated as a disqualification when a candidate meets the minimum eligibility criteria.
Court's Directives and Future Steps
The court quashed the Moga Municipal Corporation's order dated August 8, 2025. It directed the corporation to reconsider the petitioner's case. This reconsideration must happen within six weeks.
The High Court provided specific instructions for if Lakhvinder Singh is appointed. He shall be granted the same deemed date of appointment as other selected candidates. However, salary would be payable only from his actual date of joining. The court added that seniority is to be fixed according to the merit list.
This judgment reinforces a fair approach to government recruitment. It protects candidates from arbitrary rejection based on their educational achievements exceeding the basic requirements.
