Supreme Court: 'Sympathy cannot override law' in sacking over non-disclosure of criminal cases

• Supreme Court overturned an Allahabad High Court order reinstating a Uttar Pradesh government employee.
• Employee was sacked for failing to disclose pending criminal cases during recruitment.
• Court emphasized that disclosure of criminal antecedents is a basic requirement for public service, not a mere formality.
• Bench invoked "dura lex, sed lex" (the law may be harsh, but the law is law), stating compassion cannot override legal principles.
• Non-disclosure undermines the selection process and reflects deliberate concealment, justifying strict action by authorities.

Why It Matters: Supreme Court upholds sacking for non-disclosure of criminal cases, asserting law over sympathy in public service.