S B SINGHAL Vs. UOI

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioners in these cases were employees working with the Fertilizer Corporation of India. The Corporation had formulated a scheme known as voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS). As per the Scheme, two options were given to the employees, including the option to seek reparation on the basis of what is called DHI (Department of Heavy Industries) model or formula that enabled grant of appropriate ex-gratia compensation.

(2.) The petitioners' offer for voluntary retirement were accepted; amounts were calculated and disbursed to them. All this happened in the year 2002.

(3.) Subsequently, after the cessation of employment of the petitioners, (on account of what is alleged to be certain inter departmental correspondence between the Corporation arid the Central Government),'a view was taken that excess amounts had been paid to the petitioners and other employees. This was disputed by the petitioners.