JUDGMENT :

With consent of the parties, hearing of the matter has been done through video conferencing and there is no complaint whatsoever regarding audio and visual quality.

I.A. No. 1449 of 2021

2. This Interlocutory Application has been filed for condoning the delay of 138 days, which has occurred in preferring this appeal.

3. Reply to the aforesaid Interlocutory Application has been filed by the writ petitioner-respondent.

4. Heard Mrs. Darshana Poddar Mishra, learned A.A.G. I appearing for the appellants-State as also Mr. Binod Singh, learned counsel appearing for the sole respondent who has vehemently opposed the condonation of delay.

5. Having heard learned counsel appearing for the parties and having regard to the averments made in this application, we are of the view that the appellants were prevented by sufficient cause from preferring the appeal within the period of limitation.

6. Accordingly, I.A. No. 1449 of 2021 is allowed and delay of 138 days in preferring the appeal is condoned.

L.P.A. No. 83 of 2019

7. The instant intra-court appeal is preferred against the order/judgment dated 16.08.2018 passed by learned Single Judge in W.P. (S) No. 6607 of 2016, whereby and whereunder