Textual and Contextual Interpretation of Administrative Regulations

The true meaning and applicability of administrative regulations must be derived from their complete text, context, and overall statutory architecture. Isolated expressions or terminology used within a regulatory schedule cannot be extracted to alter the core purpose and scope of the parent instrument. Where expressions like direct recruitment appear within specific tables of promotional regulations, they must be interpreted consistently with the overarching object of career advancement. Subordinate legislation crafted as a ladder for internal institutional progression cannot be interpreted textually to serve as an entry gate for initial open competition. Courts must scrutinize the foundational basis upon which a regulation is constructed before extending its coverage to unintended categories of persons. A purposive interpretation ensures that administrative regulations carry out their intended statutory function without causing regulatory distortion. Statutory instruments must always be read as an integrated whole to preserve their contextual logic and legislative intent. (Gujarat Public Service Commission v. Gnaneshwary Dushyantkumar Shah & Ors. | 2026 INSC 70)