Law: Constitution of Pakistan, 1973

Section: 199

Summary of the Judgment: Arbitrary Delay

This constitutional petition challenged the failure of the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) and the Administrative Department to recommend the petitioner for appointment as a Food Grains Supervisor (BS-09) despite two clear vacancies arising due to non-joining of previously selected candidates. The petitioner, placed second on the waiting list, applied in time. However, due to arbitrary and delayed action by the Administrative Department—which initially requested only one recommendation and later acted after the waiting list expired—the Commission refused the recommendation citing expiry of the waiting list.

The Court held:

The Administrative Department acted arbitrarily in ignoring one of the two vacant posts.