P.Ravindran, (Jo9212), v. Tamilnadu State Transport Corporation (Kovai) Ltd

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MADRAS

DATED: 13.02.2025

CORAM

THE HON'BLE Mr. JUSTICE C.V.KARTHIKEYAN W.P.No.4875 of 2025 P.Ravindran .. Petitioner Vs.

Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (Kovai) Ltd., Rep. by its Managing Director, No.37, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore - 43.

.. Respondent Prayer: Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India praying to issue a Writ of Mandamus, directing the respondent to settle the interest for the belated payment of retirement benefits such as Gratuity, Earned Leave Salary, Provident Fund payable to the petitioner with 15% of interest within the time frame that may be stipulated by this Court. For Petitioner .. Mr.R.Krishnawamy For Respondent .. Mr.Murali Vinodh, Standing Counsel

ORDER

This Writ Petition has been filed in the nature of a Mandamus seeking a direction to pay interest at 15% per annum towards the belated settlement of terminal benefits like Provident Fund, Gratuity and Earned Leave Salary, to the petitioner.

2.In the affidavit filed in support of the writ petition it had been stated that the petitioner had joined as driver in the respondent Corporation on 06.03.1992 and was also made permanent. He retired from service on attaining the age of superannuation on 31.05.2022. The petitioner was serving as Special Grade Driver. It had been stated that the Provident Fund, Gratuity and Earned Leave Salary was paid only on 22.05.2023, nearly 11 months after the date of retirement. For that 11 months delay, the petitioner seeks interest at 15% per annum. In this connection, the petitioner had given a representation dated 14.10.2023.

3.A direction is issued to the respondent to examine the representation dated 14.10.2023 and it would only be in the interest of the

respondent that necessary interest component is paid immediately to the petitioner, as otherwise the liability would only increase. The respondent is also directed to pay 6% interest per annum to the petitioner and this would be effective from the date of retirement till the date of actual disbursement. The entire procedure must be completed within a period of four months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. 4.With the above observations, this Writ Petition stands disposed of. No costs.

13.02.2025 Index:Yes/No Internet:Yes/No smv To Managing Director, Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (Kovai) Ltd., No.37, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore - 43.

C.V.KARTHIKEYAN,J.

smv W.P.No.4875 of 2025 13.02.2025