Delay and Laches Can't Bar Justice: Upholds Appointment: Supreme Court

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has reaffirmed the principle that lengthy delays and inaction cannot bar justice in service matters. The recent judgment, delivered on October 11, 2023, by a bench comprising Hon'ble Justice Vikram Nath and Hon'ble Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, addressed a dispute over the appointment and continuance in service of a PET (Physical Education Teacher) in a school in Odisha.

The verdict centered on the appointment of the appellant, who was appointed by the Managing Committee constituted on December 15, 1992. Respondent No.5 raised objections to the appointment, alleging that it was illegal and void ab initio. However, the Supreme Court examined the factual scenario and the legal aspects of the case meticulously.

The Court observed, "In the absence of the post being vacant on January 7, 1993, the appointment of Respondent No.5 on the same post held by Mr. Kapil Sasmal could not have been made, and no adverse comments were made by the High Court regarding the actions taken by the Managing Committee constituted on December 15, 1992."

The judgment further emphasized that Respondent No.5 had not raised the issue before any forum for over 12 years, despite knowing about the appointment dispute. This delay and inaction, the Court stated, could not bar justice in a service matter, especially when Respondent No.5 had not approached any authorities during this period.

The Supreme Court referred to the doctrine of laches and acquiescence, stating, "Delay, laches, and acquiescence are overlapping principles, but they have distinct elements. Laches involves unreasonable delay or negligence in pursuing a claim involving equitable relief while causing prejudice to the other party. It is unjust to give the claimant a remedy when, by their conduct, they have waived it."

The judgment cited several relevant cases to support its findings, including Union of India v Tarsem Singh (2008), Union of India v N Murugesan (2022), and Chairman, State Bank of India v M J James (2022).

In the end, the Court upheld the appellant's appointment and granted the appellant the right to continue in the position of PET in the school, with service counted from May 14, 1994. Consequential benefits will be determined as per records. Additionally, Respondent No.5 was awarded a lump-sum compensation of INR 3 lakhs, and any monies paid to Respondent No.5 will not be recovered.

This landmark judgment serves as a reminder that justice cannot be denied merely due to delays and inaction in service matters, reaffirming the importance of fairness and equity in such disputes.

Date of Decision: October 11, 2023

BICHITRANANDA BEHERA  vs STATE OF ORISSA AND OTHERS     

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