A fresh review of seniority and promotions for government employees has commenced in Himachal Pradesh. The Chief Secretary issued official orders in this regard on 06 November 2026.

Background of Supreme Court and High Court orders

This step was taken after the Supreme Court dismissed the state government's Special Leave Petition and review petition. On 29 July 2026, the Supreme Court dismissed the SLP and granted four months to implement the judgment. Meanwhile, the state government's review petition was dismissed on 27 October. Prior to this, the Himachal Pradesh High Court on 25 April 2026 had struck down the Act, 2024 in the case of Devendra Kumar and others versus the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

According to the issued instructions, the promotion sequence of employees will change after contract service is added to their seniority. Respective departments have been directed to prepare a provisional seniority list and conduct review DPC or fresh DPC.

Directives for departments and promotion process

The administration has clarified that no additional supernumerary posts will be created under this process. Departments will examine which specific employees the High Court ruling applies to, and every contract employee will not automatically receive seniority benefits, as it depends on the nature of appointment and rules.