HC pulls up CS over Group-1 recruitment case

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the delay in implementing its earlier directions in the controversial Group-1 recruitment case pertaining to appointments made during the previous YSRCP government’s tenure. The court came down heavily on State Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, warning of contempt proceedings for non-compliance with judicial orders.

During the hearing, the division bench sharply questioned the failure of the administration to act immediately as directed earlier, asking whether officials understood the meaning of the word immediate. The court had previously ordered that candidates selected through the Group-1 recruitment process be shifted to non-focal posts that would not influence the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities.

Observing that the directions had not been implemented despite sufficient time, the bench issued stern remarks, cautioning that continued delay could invite serious consequences. “If the Chief Secretary himself does not respect court orders, what lesson will subordinate officials learn?” the judges asked, underscoring the importance of administrative accountability.

The court also questioned the State’s reluctance to transfer officers holding sensitive posts such as Deputy Collectors and Deputy Superintendents of Police. In a strongly worded exchange, the bench asked whether the candidates had managed officials or whether there was any collusion, reflecting its concern over the lack of compliance.

Appearing for the government, Advocate General submitted that the delay occurred due to ambiguity over the classification of focal and non-focal posts, prompting the administration to seek legal clarification. The bench, however, rejected the explanation, remarking that even basic tools could define the terms and that the administration’s reasoning was unacceptable.

In a pointed warning, the court asked whether the Chief Secretary intended to comply with the orders or face legal consequences, including possible imprisonment under contempt provisions. Responding to the bench, the Chief Secretary assured that the government would implement the court’s directions and submit a compliance report by Thursday.

The division bench comprising Justice Battu Devanand and Justice Harinath Sharma recorded the assurance and adjourned the hearing to Thursday. The court clarified that personal appearance of the Chief Secretary would not be required if the orders were implemented within the stipulated timeframe.

The Group-1 recruitment case has drawn significant public and legal attention amid allegations that certain appointments could potentially influence ongoing investigations, making the court’s intervention a crucial step in ensuring procedural fairness and adherence to judicial authority.