Delhi High Court criticises SSC for exam ban without hearing

The Delhi High Court has strongly criticised the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) for cancelling candidatures and imposing examination bans without affording candidates a chance to present their defence, observing that such actions can result in lasting professional stigma comparable to civil disability.

In its judgment, the bench noted that the practice of disqualifying candidates and barring them from SSC examinations for extended periods—without prior hearing—violates principles of natural justice and fair procedure. The court emphasised that such measures, imposed unilaterally, can have severe and irreversible consequences on a candidate's career prospects.

The High Court's intervention comes amid growing concerns about the SSC's examination conduct and disciplinary procedures. The court has directed the commission to review its protocols to ensure that candidates are given adequate opportunity to respond to charges before any punitive action is taken against them.

The ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to protecting the rights of examination candidates and ensuring that government recruitment bodies follow due process. The judgment is likely to impact how the SSC handles similar cases going forward, potentially requiring the commission to establish more transparent and fair procedures for investigating and penalising candidates accused of misconduct.