Authority: High Court of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla
Order Date: 16 July 2026
Case Overview
- Petitioner: Ravinder Kumar, ex‑serviceman engaged as a conductor on contract basis with Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) from 12 December 2016.
- Respondent: Himachal Road Transport Corporation.
- Background: Petitioner’s services were regularized effective 8 July 2021 by an office order dated 17 July 2021.
- Disputed Order: Office order dated 22 May 2026 (Annexure P‑6) held that petitioner did not satisfy the criteria under the Demobilized Armed Forces Personnel (Reservation of vacancies in the Himachal State Non‑Technical Services) Rules, 1972, and consequently his pay was re‑fixed effective 8 July 2021.
- Petitioner’s Allegations: The impugned order was passed without any notice to him, violating principles of natural justice. He seeks permission to make a representation to the respondents/competent authority and directions for a timely decision.
- Legal Precedent Cited: Dilbag Singh vs HRTC & Ors. (CWP No.11982/2024, decided on 28 April 2025).
- Respondent’s Position: The respondent’s counsel contended that adequate opportunity was provided before the order was issued.
Final Outcome
- The Court, without examining the merits, permits the petitioner to file a representation to the respondents/competent authority within two weeks from the date of this order (i.e., by 30 July 2026).
- The competent authority must consider the representation and decide in accordance with law, keeping in view the applicable Rules and the Dilbag Singh decision, within six weeks thereafter (i.e., by 10 September 2026).
- The decision of the authority shall be communicated to the petitioner.
- The writ petition stands disposed in these terms, and any pending miscellaneous applications, if any, are also disposed.
Topics: Legal Dispute, Employment Law