Supreme Court Decision: a. Unconstitutionality of Hereditary Appointments: The Court upheld the High Court’s ruling, affirming that public employment cannot be based on heredity. The 2014 Rules were found to violate Articles 14 and 16 by granting a monopoly to the descendants of chaukidars, denying others equal opportunity. b. Judicial Authority to Strike Down Subordinate Legislation: The Court clarified that constitutional courts have the inherent power to strike down subordinate legislation that is manifestly unconstitutional, even if it is not directly challenged. c. Fair Recruitment Process: The Court stressed that public employment must follow transparent processes, including advertisements, merit-based selection, and legal reservations. It criticized Bihar’s attempt to revive outdated practices, emphasizing constitutional principles over tradition.