Pawan Kumar v. State Of Punjab And Others

2023:PHHC:088230 In the High Court for the States of Punjab and Haryana At Chandigarh CWP-28335-2018 (O&M) Date of Decision:-14.7.2023 Pawan Kumar ... Petitioner

Versus

State of Punjab and others ... Respondents

CORAM:

HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE GURVINDER SINGH GILL Present:- Mr. M.K. Dogra, Advocate for the petitioner.

Mr. Aman Dhir, DAG, Punjab.

***** GURVINDER SINGH GILL, J. (Oral) 1.

The petitioner, who is working as 'Tea-Mate' in the office of respondent No.3 - The Executive Engineer, Workshop Division, Ranjit Sagar Dam, Shahpur Kandi Township, Pathankot, seeks issuance of a writ in the nature of mandamus so as to direct the respondents to pay arrears of the benefit of 'Assured Career Progression Scheme' (ACP) on completion of 4, 9 and 14 years of service in a cadre.

2.

It is not disputed that after filing of the instant petition, the arrears of ACP were released to the petitioner on 15.10.2018. It is also not in dispute that while a decision in respect of grant of proficiency step-up increments under the scheme was taken on 1.7.2014, but the arrears due were paid only in the year 2018 i.e. on 15.10.2018. However, no explanation for the said delay of about 4 years in making payment is forthcoming. PANKAJ KAKKAR 2023.07.14 16:43 I attest to the accuracy and authenticity of this document

CWP-28335-2018 (O&M) ( 2 ) 2023:PHHC:088230 3.

Having heard the learned counsel for the petitioner as well as the learned State counsel, the instant petition is allowed to the limited extent that the respondents are directed to pay the interest @ 8% per annum on the amount of arrears, the payment of which was delayed for about 4 years. The said amount be computed and be paid to the petitioner in the next 3 months. 14.7.2023 ( Gurvinder Singh Gill ) pankaj Judge Whether speaking /reasoned Yes / No Whether Reportable Yes / No PANKAJ KAKKAR 2023.07.14 16:43 I attest to the accuracy and authenticity of this document