Supreme Court Rules Compassionate Appointees Cannot Seek Higher Post Later

The Supreme Court has held that once a dependent of a deceased employee accepts an appointment on compassionate grounds, the claim stands fulfilled and cannot be reopened to seek appointment to a higher post.

The Court said a compassionate appointment is an exception to the normal recruitment process and cannot be treated as an avenue for career progression.

It observed that mere eligibility for a higher post does not create a right to claim such appointment after accepting a lower post. Allowing repeated claims would amount to “endless compassion,” which the law does not permit.

The Court set aside the Madras High Court’s contrary directions.

[Director of Town Panchayat v. M Jayabal & Anr.]