IN THE HIGH COURT OF DELHI
Suresh Kumar Kait, Saurabh Banerjee, JJ.
Shubham Verma - Appellant
Versus
Union of India - Respondent
W.P.(C) 14247 of 2022 & CM Appl. 43508 of 2022
Decided On : 07-10-2022

The court mandates prompt decision-making by administrative bodies on unresolved representations impacting individuals' rights, with an emphasis on suspending coercive actions during review.

Headnote:(A) Constitution of India - Article 226 - Quashing of letter concerning military training and seniority - Petition filed to challenge a letter affecting petitioner's graduation and training at NDA, seeking recognition of seniority - Court compelled respondent to decide on representation made by petitioner - It was directed that no coercive action be taken against the petitioner regarding service conditions. (Paras 1-4)

(B) Administrative behavior - Principles of decision-making - The court underscored the necessity for timely responses to representations submitted by individuals affected by administrative decisions. (Paras 2, 3)

Facts of the case:
The petitioner challenged the letter dated 22.06.2021, aiming for permission to continue graduation and military training, claiming that prior representations remained unresolved.

Findings of Court:
The petition was disposed of with directions for the respondents to make a decision on the latest representation within four weeks and to communicate this in writing within one week thereafter, alongside staying any coercive action against the petitioner.

Issues: The court primarily addressed whether the respondents should respond to the outstanding representations and the implications for the petitioner's military training and seniority.

Ratio Decidendi: The court emphasized that administrative bodies are obliged to resolve representations promptly, highlighting the right of individuals to challenge decisions affecting their training and service conditions.

Result: Petition disposed of with directions.