Merit under a quota must follow the applicable notified framework

Sports-quota admissions used gradation categories A, B and C. The published prospectus identified the academic years to be counted. The later email widened the achievements considered. Changing the relevant achievements can alter inter-se merit. Admissions must follow the valid framework governing that session. The authority must apply criteria consistently among candidates. The Court reviewed the fairness of the altered assessment method. The challenge to the 2024 change succeeded. Divjot Sekhon v. State of Punjab and Others | 2026 INSC 26