The court directed the competent authority to decide a pending transfer representation within three weeks, emphasizing that administrative authorities cannot leave such applications pending indefinitely.

ORAL ORDER

Per: Justice M.G. Sewlikar, Member (J)

1. I have heard learned counsel for the applicant and learned counsel for the respondents.

2. Learned counsel for the applicant submits that the applicant has made representation on 04th September, 2024 to the respondents which the respondents have not yet decided. The applicant has sought transfer to Raipur Division. Learned counsel for the respondents states that the General Manager with whom the application is pending, will decide the said application in a time bound manner.

3. In view of the above, the General Manager is directed to decide the representation within a period of three weeks from today.

4. Learned counsel for the respondents submits that it will not be possible for the General Manager to decide the representation within a period of three weeks and, therefore, eight weeks’ time may be granted. Request is rejected. Already, close to two years have passed since the date of making application. Respondents cannot sit over the application for indefinite period. In this view of the matter, following order is passed:-

i) General Manager/Competent Authority shall pass a speaking order on the application dated 04th September, 2024 within a period of three weeks from today in accordance with rules/ regulations/ extant circulars/ notifications/ office memorandums/ orders, etc.

ii) It is made clear that I have not passed any order touching the merits of the matter.

5. With these directions, OA stands disposed of. Pending MAs, if any, stand disposed of. No costs.