STATE OF PUNJAB Vs. JAGIR SINGH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The learned Trial and also the learned First Appellate Court recorded a finding that the appellants are liable to pay interest @ 18% on the delayed retiral benefits which were payable to the plaintiff-respondent.

(2.) Though the learned Additional A.G. does not dispute that there was delay in the payment of the retiral benefits, he has a grievance that the rate of interest awarded is on the excessive side.

(3.) The plea is bereft of merit. There are rules on the point that process for the finalisation of the pension papers has to be started few months before the date of retirement. The needful was concededly not done in the present case and all the items of retirement benefits were paid after delay. State is a model employer and it ought not to be heard to grudge payment of interest on account of delay in disbursement thereof.