Srinagar, April 29: The Central Administrative Tribunal, Srinagar Bench, has taken strong note of prolonged delay in release of pensionary benefits to a retired employee, observing that authorities failed to act despite repeated court directions over several years.
The case pertains to Abdul Gani Lone, a former In-charge Store Keeper in the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Department, who approached the tribunal seeking release of his pension and related benefits.
The tribunal noted that Lone was implicated in an FIR registered in 1997 alleging misappropriation of funds and was subsequently placed under suspension. However, he was acquitted of all charges by a competent court in December 2012, and the acquittal was not challenged by the authorities.
Despite his reinstatement in April 2013, the tribunal observed that pensionary benefits were not released, even as the petitioner superannuated in August 2013 and is now around 73 years old.
The tribunal expressed concern that even provisional pension was not granted, noting that such benefits are essential for a retired employee’s survival. It observed that pension is a legal right and has the status of property under Article 300A of the Constitution of India.
The bench also highlighted that earlier directions issued by the High Court in 2017, asking the department to produce records of any inquiry conducted, were not complied with for years. Even subsequent directions by the tribunal in 2025 failed to ensure timely compliance.
In its observations, the tribunal remarked on the lack of sensitivity shown by officials, stating that authorities could have at least sanctioned provisional pension considering the petitioner’s age and service history.
The tribunal has now directed the respondents to submit detailed calculations of dues before the next hearing and warned that failure to comply may lead to summoning of senior officers, including the Director and Commissioner Secretary of the department. Advocate Tasaduk Husain Reshi appeared for the petitioner.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on May 13.
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