As per case facts, the petitioner challenged an order rejecting his selection for Haryana Civil Services (Executive Branch) posts. His Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) for recent years, which were "Outstanding" ... from reporting authorities, were formally accepted by the competent authority after the eligibility cutoff date. This administrative delay led to his disqualification as he was deemed to lack the required number of "Very Good" or above ACRs. The question arose whether the petitioner could be denied promotion due to administrative delays in the formal acceptance of his ACRs by the competent authority, when the reporting and recommending authorities had already submitted "Outstanding" remarks before the cutoff date. Finally, the High Court ruled that administrative lapses in timely recording and forwarding ACRs should not adversely affect an employee's right to consideration for promotion. The court set aside the rejection order, directing the State to declare the petitioner's result and offer him appointment with full benefits.