The recently declared results of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) (Mains) Examination, 2025, have sparked widespread discussion, highlighting the critical role of transparency and merit in public recruitment. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where civil service examinations are highly competitive, ensuring fairness is not just a procedural requirement; it is essential for sustaining public trust in governance. Government employees, as the operational face of the State, play a pivotal role in shaping this perception. Public perception of the State is shaped not only by its laws and policies but also by the integrity, competence, and accountability of those in public office. From a constitutional perspective, the recruitment process is particularly important, as it reflects the State’s commitment to the rule of law, equality, and fairness.

In a modern democratic polity, unlike traditional or patronage-based systems,........

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