The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark ruling regarding the eligibility of judicial officers for direct recruitment as district judges, confirming that those with seven years of experience can apply starting October 9, 2025. This decision, made by a five-judge Constitution Bench, protects all selections and appointments completed before the ruling. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi emphasized that selected officers are entitled to their appointments and can seek reinstatement if previously relieved due to eligibility issues. The court clarified that deemed seniority cannot be granted based on incomplete selection processes. Additionally, the ruling stipulates that in-service candidates must have a combined experience of seven years as a judicial officer or advocate, with a minimum age requirement of 35 years for applicants. The Supreme Court also directed all High Courts to review individual cases of judicial officers in accordance with the new legal framework established by this ruling.