SC: Relaxed Entry Means No General Seat Claim in Competitive Exams

• Supreme Court ruled that reserved candidates availing relaxation in prelims cannot claim unreserved seats later.
• Decision overturns Karnataka High Court's ruling favoring an SC candidate in the IFS examination.
• The Court emphasized that the IFS exam is an integrated process; any relaxation at any stage disqualifies from general vacancies.
• Case involved SC candidate G. Kiran, who used relaxed prelims cut-off, and general candidate Antony S. Mariyappa.
• Judgment cites Union of India vs. Sajib Roy, impacting millions and clarifying reservation rules for central services.

Why It Matters: Availing reservation benefits at any stage disqualifies candidates from claiming unreserved seats.