Jammu: In a firm stance on bureaucratic delays, the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Jammu Bench, has warned that the salary of the Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and the Secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of J&K, will be withheld in case of non-compliance with its directions concerning a long-pending departmental promotion process.
Background of the Case
The case, titled K.R. Gupta vs Department of Public Works, UT of J&K, relates to multiple transferred applications – T.A./6000/2021, T.A./6080/2021, and T.A./6007/2021 – previously part of SWP/WP 1065/2007.
The matter pertains to the inordinate delay in convening the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) and finalizing the promotions of eligible officers. The Tribunal had issued several directions previously to expedite the process.
PSC Secretary Appears via VC, Seeks Time
During the latest hearing, the Secretary of the JKPSC appeared before the Tribunal via video conferencing. He assured the Bench that a comprehensive DPC proposal would be forwarded to the concerned department the same day, and that steps would be taken to complete the process promptly.
State Seeks Additional Time
Representing the J&K government, Deputy Advocate General Hunar Gupta also requested more time to complete the formalities. Taking note of the submissions, CAT granted a five-week extension to conclude the DPC process.
Stern Warning from CAT
However, the Tribunal made it clear that non-compliance will result in strict action. In its order, the Bench stated:
“Failing this, the Secretary, PSC and the Secretary, PWD shall remain present before this Court on the next date of hearing. In default of appearance or compliance, the salary of the said officers shall be stopped.”
The matter is now listed for the next hearing on 8th September 2025.
