SRINAGAR: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Jammu, issued a stern directive against two senior forest officials for failing to comply with repeated court orders in a case regarding a compassionate appointment.
The case, initially filed as WPC 3490/2019 in the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, was transferred to CAT in July 2020 as TA. No. 2622/2020. The applicant, Balwant Singh, has sought justice for an appointment under compassionate grounds. Despite multiple orders, including those dated August 29 and September 27 this year, the respondents failed to submit their written statements or appear in court with explanations.
Frustrated by the non-compliance, the tribunal, led by Member (A) Ram Mohan Johri and Member (J) Rajinder Singh Dogra, ordered the immediate halting of salaries for the Conservator of Forests, Chenab Circle, Doda, and the Divisional Forest Officer, Bhaderwah. Additionally, the Chief Conservator of Forests, J&K, was instructed to investigate the matter and take strict action against the officers involved.
The court expressed concern over the delay in justice caused by the lackadaisical approach of the officials, stating, “Justice delayed is justice denied.” Observing the adverse impact of such negligence on public trust in the judiciary, the tribunal reaffirmed that no one is above the law.
The respondents have been directed to file their written statements along with an action report before the next hearing on November 20.
