The relief sought for in this writ petition is to quash the order issued by the first respondent in G.O.(3D).No.20 Health and Family Welfare Department 02.07.2012 and the order of the second respondent dated 27.08.2012 and further direct the respondent to settle the terminal and pensionary benefits due to the writ petitioner.
2. The learned Counsel appearing for the writ petitioner made a submission that disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the writ petitioner during the eve of his retirement; the petitioner is due to retire from service on 31.05.2010 and before retirement disciplinary proceedings were initiated and ultimately the petitioner was allowed to retire from service; thereafter, the disciplinary proceedings were initiated under rule 9 of Tamil Nadu Pension Rules.
3. The learned Additional Government Pleader appearing on behalf of the respondents states that there are 15 Official involved in the allegations and common enquiry proceedings were initiated in respect of all 15 delinquent Officials, however the Additional Government Pleader states that the process of enquiry is in progress in respect of four delinquent Officials and in respect of other officials enquiry has been concluded and the enquiry proceedings are delayed on account the request made by the delinquent officials for change of enquiry Officer. The request was considered and new enquiry officer was appointed and he is in the process of conducting the enquiry. Thus the learned Additional Government Pleader requests that some more time may be granted for conducting the enquiry and to pass finial order in disciplinary proceedings.
4. No doubt, the disciplinary proceedings initiated against the Government Officials to be concluded as early as possible without causing further delay. Long delay in concluding the disciplinary proceedings will cause prejudice to the Government Servants more specially in the cases were disciplinary proceeding were initiated on the eve of retirement. The right of terminal and pensionary benefits are also affected in view of pendency of the disciplinary proceedings. Accordingly this court is of the view that disciplinary proceedings once initiated by didisciplinary authority shall be completed as early as possible and within a reasonable period. In view of this factor, the respondents are directed to conclude the enquiry in all respects and pass final orders in the disciplinary proceedings within a period of six months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order.
5. The writ petitioner is directed to co-operate for the enquiry proceedings in all respects and if any non corporation is found, the same may be recorded in the enquiry proceeding itself.
6. Accordingly the writ petition stands disposed of.