CHANDRA GUPTA I F S SECRETARY DEPTT OF FOREST CHANDRA GUPTA I F S Vs. SECRETARY GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS:R S SINGH:R S SINGH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) LEAVE granted.

(2.) ALL these cases can be dealt with under a common judgment.

(3.) PREVIOUSLY, the post of Chief Conservator of Forest was divided into two categories, namely, 1. Additional Chief Conservator of Forests and 2. Chief Conservator of Forests. Both these posts were borne on the super-time scale of Rs. 5900-6700. However, with effect from 31st of May, 1990 both these posts were redesignated and merged into the category of Chief Conservator of Forests. On the appointment of an officer to the Indian Forest Service by the Central Government under Rule 4(a) of the Recruitment Rules his promotion to the various grades within the State is done by the State Government. While doing so, the State Government must have regard to the statutory Rules and the administrative instructions issued by the Central Government, from time to time. Particularly, regard must be had to Rule 3(3) of the Indian Forest Service (Pay Rules). This is because the Rule lays down the mode of selection to the grade of senior scale/selection grade. That Rule prescribes selection on merit with due regard to seniority. The Government of India have also issued certain guidelines on 31/01/1985 to regulate the manner of effecting promotions.