Heard.

1. The petitioner is aggrieved not only by the order of suspension as originally passed on 31.01.2017, the grievance is aggravated on account of long continuation of suspension.

2. While granting further time of two weeks on 27.10.2017, it was made clear that no further time would be granted. The case was, however, adjourned on 17.11.2017 at the request of learned counsel for the petitioner. Even now, reply of the State is not filed.

3. However, taking into consideration the nature of relief sought in this petition and the settled legal position, I deem it expedient to finally dispose off the matter.

4. The petitioner was placed under suspension vide order dated 31.01.2017 on a host of charges relating to irregularity in performance of duties. The allegations pertain to irregularity in performance of duties and functions. After suspension, charge-sheet followed on 10.03.2017.

5. Coincidently, the petitioner also preferred an appeal against the suspension order on the same day i.e. on 10.03.2017 before the Appellate Authority, invoking its statutory remedy of appeal under Rule 23 of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966. The appeal