Employer's Autonomy in Framing Inter Se Seniority Rules and Methodology:

The employer possesses the prerogative to frame valid rules and devise methodologies for determining the inter se seniority of different classes or categories of employees entering a cadre through various sources. Service rules framed by the Government cannot be challenged merely because a different rule-making approach could have been adopted or because a section of employees experiences administrative hardship. Courts must not interfere with employer-crafted seniority norms unless they violate statutory mandates or fundamental constitutional provisions. (M.Prema Vs. The State of Tamil Nadu | 2026 INSC 1105)