#OBC category

An OBC candidate selected on merit in the unreserved category without a valid caste certificate must be treated as a general category candidate, with full salary arrears and seniority from the date of appointment. This ruling reinforces that merit overrides procedural caste classification when selection occurs in open competition, setting a precedent for equitable treatment in public employment.

Tripura High Court ruled that an OBC candidate who secures higher marks than general category candidates cannot be denied appointment to unreserved posts merely due to availing reservation benefits. The court emphasized that merit must prevail, and selection authorities must disclose cut-off marks to ensure transparency and equal protection under service law.