Ariharan T (Retd) v. The Managing Director

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MADRAS

DATED : 19.02.2026

CORAM

THE HONOURABLE MR.JUSTICE M.DHANDAPANI T.Ariharan ... Petitioner Vs.

The Managing Director, Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (Coimbatore) Limited, No.37, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore-641 043. ...Respondent PRAYER : Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India praying for issuance of a Writ of Mandamus, to direct the respondent Corporation to pay the petitioner interest at the rate of 18% per annum, for the period of delay from 31.07.2023 to 25.08.2025 (25 months), in paying the amounts paid towards his terminal benefits, namely, EPF Employee's Contribution and Gratuity within a time frame as may be fixed by this Court. For Petitioner : Mr.S.Sivaskandavarman For Respondent : Mr.C.Gauthamaraj

O R D E R

This Writ Petition has been filed to direct the respondent Corporation to pay the petitioner's interest at the rate of 18% per annum, for the period of delay from 31.07.2023 to 25.08.2025 (25 months), in paying the amounts towards his terminal benefits, namely, EPF Employee's Contribution and Gratuity within a time frame fixed by this Court.

2. It is the case of the petitioner that the petitioner, who had joined the services of the respondent Corporation, had retired from service in the year 2023, however, the terminal benefits have been settled only on 25.08.2025. Therefore, the petitioner claimed 18% interest per annum on the belated payment of terminal benefits and he has also made representation on 30.12.2025 to pay interest for the belated payment of terminal benefits which has not been evoked any response so far. Hence, the petitioner is before this Court.

3. Heard the learned counsels appearing on either side and perused the materials available on record.

4. In view of the limited request made by the petitioner with regard to interest on the belated payment of terminal benefits, this Court directs the respondent to pay interest @ 6% per annum for the belated payment of terminal benefits from the date of retirement till the date of actual disbursal of terminal benefits of the petitioner, within a period of six weeks from the date of receipt of a copy of this order taking into account the bank rate of interest on deposits.

5. Accordingly, this Writ Petition is disposed of. There shall be no order as to costs.

19.02.2026 (2/3) NCC: Yes / No Index : Yes / No Speaking Order : Yes / No ssb

M.DHANDAPANI, J.

ssb To The Managing Director, Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (Coimbatore) Limited, No.37, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore-641 043.

19.02.2026 (2/3)