SUSANTA NANDA Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) EVEN though the matter was listed for fresh admission; with the consent of both the parties, it was taken up for final disposal. Heard learned counsel for the parties.

(2.) THE petitioner, who is a direct recruit to the cadre of Indian Forest Service (in short I.F.S.) is borne in the Orissa Cadre and joined initially in the service on 19.7.1989 as D.F.O.

(3.) THE main contention of the petitioner is that though a disciplinary proceeding was initiated as earlier as in January, 2001, his promotion to the selection grade of I.F.S. was considered and kept in sealed cover since 2005 which would be evident from Annexure -2. As it would appear from the records that even though his juniors have been promoted to the selection grade and subsequently to the rank of Conservator of Forests, but due to the pendency of disciplinary proceeding under Annexure -1, the promotion of the petitioner has been held up and the recommendation of the selection committee remains in the "sealed cover".