Service Record Must Guide Premature Retirement Decisions: J&K and Ladakh High Court
The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has reiterated that decisions relating to premature or compulsory retirement of government servants must be founded on cogent material drawn from their service records.
The Court observed that an assessment of an employee’s reputation or integrity cannot be based on vague perceptions or general statements. Any such opinion must arise from objective material, including service records, performance reports, and relevant inputs from supervisory authorities.
While examining an appeal challenging the setting aside of a premature retirement order, the Court noted that reliance on isolated factors without a holistic review of the service record is insufficient. The Court emphasized that mere reference to an allegation or proceeding, without supporting material, cannot justify adverse administrative action.
The ruling underscores the requirement of fairness, objectivity, and proper application of mind in matters involving compulsory retirement under service regulations.