JUDGMENT :

1. This appeal is barred by 476 days.

2. In the application for condonation of delay, in order to explain long delay of 476 days, all that has been stated in the application is as below:-

"2. That the impugned order was passed on 29.08.2019. Thereafter, after taking legal opinion from the counsel it was placed for decision in the meeting of the department head on 19.2.2020 wherein decision for filing Special Appeal was taken. The decision of the meeting was circulated vide order No. 4371 dated 24.2.2020. Thereafter the matter was forwarded to the Additional Advocate General for preparing special appeal vide Letter No. 1852 dated 17.3.2020. Subsequently, due to worldwide pandemic Covid-19 lock down was imposed throughout Country/State including the Department of the appellants. Upon resumption of function/works the Special Appeal was prepared and after getting the same wet from concern authorities and the same has been filed before this Hon'ble Court without any further delay.

3. That the delay caused in filing of the special appeal is not coupled with any malafide or deliberate intention rather it is due to aforesaid bonafide reason, as such it deserves to the condoned in th