Upholding Justice: Implementing Court Orders for Pensionary Benefits of Retired Railway Employees
In a significant development aimed at ensuring justice for retired railway employees, the Railway Board has issued directives to implement court orders regarding the grant of notional increments for pensionary benefits. This decision comes in response to numerous court cases filed by retired employees seeking revisions to their pension and benefits entitlements.
The communication, dated March 15, 2024, highlights the challenges faced by retired railway personnel who retired on the 30th of June before drawing their pensionary benefits. These individuals have approached the Honorable Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT/HYD) seeking direction to revise their pensions by granting notional increments based on completion of one year of service from July 1st to June 30th of the following year.
After careful consideration, the CAT/HYD has ruled in favor of the applicants, underscoring the importance of ensuring fair treatment and due benefits to retired railway personnel. In light of these court orders, the Railway Board has taken proactive steps to implement the directives outlined in the communication.
The key provisions of the directives include:
Implementation of Court Orders: The Railway Board has instructed the concerned authorities to implement the orders of the Honorable CAT/HYD in cases where contempt petitions have been filed against the Railway Administration. This is to be done on a 'personam' basis, ensuring that the benefits reach the deserving retirees.
Compliance with Future Cases: The communication also mandates the adoption of similar procedures in all future cases where contempt petitions are filed for non-implementation of court orders. This underscores the commitment of the Railway Board to uphold judicial decisions and ensure justice for retired employees.
Guidelines for Benefit Extension: Notional increments are to be extended only to cases involving contempt petitions, in accordance with guidelines set forth by the Honorable Supreme Court in the Union of India Vs. Tarsem Singh case. Additionally, the communication restricts the payment of arrears to a period of three years prior to the date of filing the Original Application (OA).
Adherence to Administrative Procedures: While intimating the revision of pensionary benefits, authorities are advised to strictly adhere to administrative directions received from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoP&T). This ensures that the process is conducted in accordance with established protocols and legal guidelines.
The approval of the Competent Authority underscores the significance of these directives in ensuring fairness and equity in the treatment of retired railway employees. By implementing court orders and adhering to legal principles, the Railway Board reaffirms its commitment to upholding justice and providing rightful benefits to those who have dedicated their lives to the service of the nation's railways.
In conclusion, the communication serves as a testament to the Railway Board's commitment to addressing the concerns of retired employees and upholding the principles of justice and fairness in pensionary matters. It underscores the importance of compliance with court orders and the timely implementation of directives to ensure that retired railway personnel receive their rightful entitlements.
