ARCHANA BAINS Vs. STATE

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The writ petitioner questions an order dated 10.9.1998, passed by the Delhi School Tribunal, dismissing her appeal.

(2.) Rule was issued after hearing counsel for the petitioner on 9th October, 2000. Respondents had been served thereafter. The petition was expedited, by an order dated 2.8.2005. On subsequent dates of hearing, there was no appearance on behalf of respondents. The matter was, therefore heard finally for disposal.

(3.) The petitioner had joined as Music Teacher in the 5th respondent- school, pursuant to an advertisement issued by the 4th respondent. She was selected and appointed in May 1985. Initially she joined the DAV Public School, Pitampura, Delhi. She was later transferred to DAV School at Faridabad. It her case that she applied for maternity leave on 15th December, 1988 which was duly sanctioned. She could not, however, report back on duty on account of some domestic problems and sought extension of leave. She alleges that in May 1989 she was compelled to shift back to Delhi as she faced harassment from her husband and his family members. It was also averred that divorce proceedings had been initiated. It is alleged that petitioner met the Principal of the 5th respondent school in August 1989 and requested him to allow her to join but he refused, on the ground that he had filled the post of Music Teacher. It is claimed that petitioner was subsequently allowed to join duties on 2nd April, 1990 where she worked till commencement of vacation. She sought for release of her salary for the period between November 1988 and 15th March, 1989 and also for her pay protection.