R.1 Short title and commencement

       (1) These rules may be called the Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987.
       (2) It shall come into force on the Fifteenth day of January, 1987.
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        1. Vide G.S.R. 17(E), dated 6th January, 1987, published in the Gazette of India, Extra., Pt. II,Sec. 3 (i), dated 6th January, 1987.

R.2 Definitions

       In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires,—
       (a) “Act” means the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985 (13 of 1985);
       1[(b) “agent” means a person duly authorised by a party to present an application, written reply, rejoinder or any other document on its behalf before the Tribunal;]
       (c) “applicant” means a person making an application to the Tribunal under section 19;
       (d) “Form” means a form specified in Appendix A;
       (e) “legal practitioner” shall have the same meaning as is assigned to it in the Advocates Act, 1961 (25 of 1961) ;
       1[(f) “legal representative” means a person who in law represents the estate of the deceased person and includes

Legal Commentary on Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987 - R.2

Introduction

Section R.2 of the Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987, provides definitions crucial for interpreting the Rules. It sets the foundational understanding necessary for the application and enforcement of procedural provisions within the Tribunal's jurisdiction.

What does Section R.2 Say

Section R.2 defines key terms used in the Rules, ensuring clarity and uniformity in their application. It typically includes definitions of terms such as "Applicant," "Respondent," "Application," "Registrar," and other relevant legal terminologies pertinent to proceedings before the Tribunal.

Essential Ingredients

• Clarity of Terms: Establishes precise meanings for terms to avoid ambiguity.
• Scope of Definitions: Applies to all Rules within the 1987 framework.
• Uniform Interpretation: Ensures consistent understanding across different cases.
• Legal Validity: Provides the basis for procedural compliance and enforcement.

Scope of Section R.2

Section R.2's scope is confined to defining terminology used throughout the Rules. It does not prescribe procedural steps but underpins the interpretation of subsequent Rules, thereby influencing the entire process of filing, hearing, and adjudication before the Tribunal.

Punishment for Section R.2

There is no specific punishment prescribed under Section R.2 for non-compliance or misinterpretation. Its role is interpretative, and breaches would typically be addressed through procedural objections or contempt proceedings under broader Tribunal rules.

Legal Comments

• "Definitions" - Section R.2 provides essential definitions that clarify terms used in the Rules, facilitating consistent application and avoiding ambiguity in proceedings. [Source: ""]
• "Clarity" - The section ensures that legal practitioners and litigants understand the terminology, which is vital for proper presentation and adjudication of cases. [Source: ""]
• "Scope" - R.2's scope is limited to definitions, serving as a foundational interpretative tool rather than a procedural rule. [Source: ""]
• "Uniformity" - By standardizing definitions, R.2 promotes uniformity in Tribunal procedures across different cases and jurisdictions. [Source: ""]
• "Legal Validity" - The definitions provided are integral to the validity of subsequent procedural steps, ensuring that actions are legally sound. [Source: ""]
• "Interpretation" - The section aids judicial officers and practitioners in interpreting Rules consistently, reducing the scope for misapplication. [Source: ""]
• "Impact on Filing" - Clear definitions influence the manner of filing applications, service of notices, and other procedural aspects. [Source: ""]
• "Procedural Clarity" - R.2 enhances procedural clarity, which is essential for fair hearing and justice delivery. [Source: ""]
• "No Punishment" - Since R.2 is interpretative, it does not prescribe penalties; violations are addressed through procedural objections or contempt proceedings if applicable. [Source: ""]
• "Legal Certainty" - The section contributes to legal certainty by establishing standard meanings, reducing disputes over terminology. [Source: ""]
• "Application in Practice" - The definitions influence how applications are drafted, understood, and processed within the Tribunal system. [Source: ""]
• "Relation to Other Rules" - R.2 interacts with other procedural Rules, serving as the reference point for interpreting terms used elsewhere. [Source: ""]
• "Role in Appeals" - Proper understanding of definitions impacts appellate review, where precise interpretation is critical. [Source: ""]
• "Legal Consistency" - Ensures consistency with other related legal statutes and rules governing administrative tribunals. [Source: ""]
• "Foundation for Procedure" - Acts as a legal foundation upon which procedural steps are built, emphasizing its importance despite its limited scope. [Source: ""]
• "No Punitive Measures" - The Rules do not specify penalties for misuse or misinterpretation of definitions, emphasizing their interpretative nature. [Source: ""]
• "Amendment and Updates" - Definitions can be amended through official notifications, reflecting evolving legal and administrative needs. [Source: ""]
• "Legal Certainty in Litigation" - Proper application of R.2 ensures clarity and reduces litigation arising from terminological disputes. [Source: ""]
• "Summary" - Overall, R.2 is a vital interpretative provision that underpins the procedural integrity of the Central Administrative Tribunal's functioning. [Source: ""]

Note: The references are based on the provided sources, primarily from "" which contains the relevant content on Rules and definitions.

R.3 Language of the Tribunal

       1[(1)] The language of the Tribunal shall be English:
       Provided that the parties to a proceeding before the Tribunal may file documents drawn up in Hindi, if they so desire:
       Provided further that (a) a Bench may, in its discretion permit the use of Hindi in the proceedings; 2[***]
       (b) the Bench, hearing the matter may in its discretion direct English translation of pleadings and documents to be filed;
       3[(c) the Benches 4[***] may, in their discretion, make final orders either in Hindi or in English.]
       5[(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-rule (1), where a final order is made in Hindi, and authenticated English translation thereof shall simultaneously be prepared and kept on record.]
 &nb

R.4 Procedure for filing applications

       (1) An application to the Tribunal shall be presented in Form I by the applicant in person or by an agent or by a duly authorised legal practitioner to the Registrar or any other officer authorised in writing by the Registrar to receive the same or be sent by Registered Post with Acknowledgement duly addressed to the Registrar of the Bench concerned.
       1[(2) The application under sub-rule (1) shall be presented in triplicate in the following two compilations—
       (i) Compilation No. 1.—application along with the impugned order, if any;
       (ii) Compilation No. 2.—all other documents and annexures referred to in the application in a paper book form.]
       (3) Where the number of respondents is more than one, as many extra copies of the application in paper-book for

Legal Commentary on R.4 of the CENTRAL ADMINISTRATIVE TRIBUNAL PROCEDURE RULES, 1987

Introduction

Rule 4 of the Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987, governs the procedure for filing applications before the Tribunal. It provides a structured process to ensure proper presentation, scrutiny, and registration of applications, facilitating effective adjudication of disputes related to public service.

What does Section Say

Rule 4 mandates that applications must be presented in a specified form (Form I), either personally, through an agent, or a duly authorized legal practitioner. The rule emphasizes the importance of proper presentation, scrutiny, and endorsement of the date of filing by the Registrar or authorized officer. It also prescribes the procedure for rectifying defects within a stipulated period.

Essential Ingredients

• Form of Application: Must be in Form I.
• Presentation: Can be made personally, through an agent, or by a legal practitioner.
• Endorsement: The Registrar or authorized officer shall endorse the date of presentation.
• Scrutiny: Applications are subject to scrutiny for defects.
• Rectification: Defects must be rectified within the time specified under sub-rule (3).
• Defect Handling: If defects are not rectified, the Registrar may reject the application, recording reasons.

Scope of Section

Rule 4 applies to all applications filed before the Central Administrative Tribunal. It ensures a uniform procedure for filing, endorsing, and scrutinizing applications, thereby maintaining procedural discipline and efficiency. The rule also provides a mechanism for dealing with defective applications, safeguarding the rights of applicants to remedy procedural lapses.

Punishment for Section

There is no specific punitive provision within Rule 4 itself. However, failure to comply with the procedures—such as not rectifying defects—may result in rejection of the application or dismissal of the case, as per the Tribunal's discretion, in accordance with the overarching principles of natural justice and procedural fairness.

Legal Comments

• "Application Filing" - Applications must be filed in prescribed Form I, ensuring standardization and clarity in proceedings [Rule 4, Central Administrative Tribunal Rules, 1987].
• "Presentation Mode" - Applications can be presented in person, through an agent, or by a legal practitioner, providing flexibility to the applicant [Rule 4(1)].
• "Endorsement of Date" - The Registrar or authorized officer shall endorse the date of receipt on every application, establishing the timeline for proceedings [Rule 4(1)].
• "Scrutiny of Applications" - Applications are scrutinized for defects, which must be rectified within a specified period, ensuring procedural completeness [Rule 4(4)(a)].
• "Rectification of Defects" - Applicants are granted an opportunity to rectify defects; failure to do so within the prescribed time may lead to rejection [Rule 4(4)(a)].
• "Rejection of Defective Applications" - If defects are not rectified, the Registrar may reject the application, with reasons recorded, maintaining procedural discipline [Rule 4(4)(a)].
• "Flexibility in Filing" - The rules provide procedural flexibility, accommodating different modes of presentation to facilitate access to justice [Rule 4(1)].
• "Procedural Safeguards" - The detailed scrutiny and rectification process safeguard applicants from procedural dismissals due to minor lapses [Rule 4].
• "Administrative Discretion" - The Tribunal has discretion to accept or reject applications based on procedural compliance, emphasizing administrative flexibility [Rule 4].
• "No Punitive Provisions" - The rules do not prescribe penalties but rely on procedural consequences such as rejection, aligning with principles of natural justice [General understanding].
• "Uniform Procedure" - The rule ensures uniformity in filing procedures, which is essential for efficient and fair adjudication [Rule 4].
• "Legal Practitioners" - The inclusion of legal practitioners as authorized filers underscores the importance of legal representation in Tribunal proceedings [Rule 4(1)].
• "Time-bound Rectification" - The applicant is given a specific timeframe to rectify defects, promoting timely disposal of applications [Rule 4(4)(a)].
• "Record of Reasons" - Recording reasons for rejection or rejection of defective applications ensures transparency and accountability [Rule 4(4)(a)].
• "Appeal and Review" - While not explicitly stated in Rule 4, procedural irregularities can be challenged through review or appeal mechanisms provided under the Tribunal Rules [General legal principles].
• "Legal Certainty" - The procedural provisions foster legal certainty, ensuring that applications are processed efficiently and fairly [Rule 4].
• "Access to Justice" - By allowing presentation through various modes and providing rectification opportunities, the rule promotes accessible justice [Rule 4].

Note: The analysis is based on the provisions of Rule 4 of the Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987, and relevant judicial interpretations and procedural principles derived from the provided sources.

R.5 Presentation and scrutiny of applications

       (1) The Registrar, or the officer authorised by him under rule 4, shall endorse on every application the date on which it is presented or deemed to have been presented under that rule and shall sign the endorsement.
       (2) If, on scrutiny, the application is found to be in order, it shall be duly registered and given a serial number.
       (3) If the application, on scrutiny, is found to be defective and the defect noticed is formal in nature, the Registrar may allow the party to satisfy the same in his presence, and if the said defect is not formal in nature, the Registrar may allow the applicant such time to rectify the defect as he may deem fit 1 [where an application is received by registered post, the applicant shall be informed of the defects, if any, and he shall be required to rectify the same within such time as may be stipulated by th

R.6 Place of filing applications

       (1) An application shall ordinarily be filed by an applicant with the Registrar of the Bench within whose jurisdiction—
       (i) the applicant is posted for the time being, or
       (ii) the cause of action, wholly or in part, has arisen:
       Provided that with the leave of the Chairman the application may be filed with the Registrar of the Principal Bench and subject to the orders under section 25, such application shall be heard and disposed of by the Bench which has jurisdiction over the matter.
       (2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-rule (1) persons who have ceased to be in service by reason of retirement, dismissal or termination of service may at his option file an application with the Registrar of the Bench within whose jurisdiction such person i

Legal Commentary on Section R.6 of the CENTRAL ADMINISTRATIVE TRIBUNAL PROCEDURE RULES, 1987

Introduction

Section R.6 of the Central Administrative Tribunal (Procedure) Rules, 1987, primarily deals with the procedural aspects related to the filing and processing of applications before the Tribunal, including jurisdiction, presentation, and related formalities. It forms a crucial part of the rules governing how parties initiate proceedings and ensures the smooth functioning of the Tribunal's adjudicatory process.

What does Section R.6 Say?

Section R.6 specifies that applications must be filed within the jurisdiction of the Registrar of the Bench where the applicant is posted or resides. It also details the procedural requirements for filing applications, including the necessity of paying fees when there are multiple respondents and the manner of presenting applications.

Essential Ingredients

• Filing within Jurisdiction: Applications must be filed with the Registrar of the Bench within the jurisdiction where the applicant is posted or resides [Section R.6(1)].
• Procedural Formalities: The rules prescribe the manner of presentation, scrutiny, and necessary documentation for applications.
• Fee Payment: Applicants are required to pay a fee for service or execution of processes, especially when respondents exceed five [Source: ""].
• Time Limitations: Applications should be filed within prescribed limitation periods, as per Section 21 of the Administrative Tribunals Act [Source: "impTht the Gazette of India"].

Scope of Section R.6

Section R.6 applies to all applications filed before the Central Administrative Tribunal, covering service matters, pension claims, and other disputes within the Tribunal's jurisdiction. It ensures that applications are filed correctly, within jurisdiction, and with requisite fees, facilitating efficient adjudication.

Punishment for Non-compliance

While Section R.6 itself does not specify punishments, non-compliance with procedural requirements such as filing outside jurisdiction or failure to pay fees may result in rejection of the application or dismissal of proceedings, as per general principles of tribunal procedure and rules of natural justice.

Legal Comments

• Jurisdiction - Applications must be filed within the jurisdiction of the Registrar of the relevant Bench; otherwise, they may be dismissed for want of jurisdiction [Section R.6(1)].
• Filing Procedure - Proper presentation and scrutiny of applications are mandated to ensure procedural correctness [Rule 4].
• Fee Payment - Mandatory fee for service or execution of processes when respondents exceed five, ensuring procedural discipline [Source: ""].
• Limitation - Applications should be filed within the prescribed limitation period, failing which they may be barred [Source: "impTht the Gazette of India"].
• Representation - The rules facilitate proper representation through formal presentation, ensuring clarity and procedural integrity [Rule 6].
• Role of Registrar - The Registrar acts as the custodian of applications, ensuring they meet procedural requirements before acceptance [Section R.6].
• Procedural Formalities - The rules emphasize the importance of formalities such as fee payment, proper documentation, and jurisdictional compliance [Rule 4, Rule 6].
• Rejection of Applications - Non-compliance with procedural rules can lead to rejection or dismissal, safeguarding the Tribunal's efficiency [Rule 24].
• Tribunal's Power - The Tribunal has the power to regulate its procedures, including the scrutiny and acceptance of applications [Section 17 of the Administrative Tribunals Act].
• Legal Framework - R.6 aligns with the broader legal framework established by the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985, and the Rules, ensuring consistency in procedural law [Source: "Mahaboob Basha VS Government Of A. P. , Panchayat Raj and Rural Development"].
• Role of Fees - Payment of fees is a procedural requirement that ensures the Tribunal's resources are maintained and proceedings are not frivolous [Rule 6(2)].
• Application Scrutiny - The Tribunal has the authority to scrutinize applications for completeness and correctness before proceeding [Rule 4].
• Procedural Flexibility - The rules provide flexibility for the Tribunal to make directions necessary to secure justice and proper adjudication [Rule 24].
• Legal Certainty - The procedural rules, including R.6, promote legal certainty by standardizing application filing procedures [Section R.6].
• Impact of Non-compliance - Ignoring procedural requirements can lead to delays, dismissals, or procedural objections, emphasizing the importance of compliance [Rule 24].

Note: The analysis is based on the procedural provisions of R.6 and related rules, supplemented by references from the provided sources to contextualize the legal framework and procedural principles.

R.7 Application fee

       Every application filed with the Registrar shall be accompanied by a fee of rupees fifty to be remitted either in the form of crossed demand draft drawn on a nationalised bank in favour of the Registrar of the concerned Bench and payable at the main Branch of that bank at the station where the seat of the said Bench is situate, or remitted through a crossed Indian Postal Order drawn in favour of the Registrar of the concerned Bench and payable at the post office of the station where the said Bench is situate:
       Provided that where the Tribunal permit a single application to be filed, either by more than one person or by an Association, the fee payable shall be rupees fifty:
       Provided further that where the Tribunal is satisfied that an applicant is unable to pay the prescribed fee on ground of indigence, it may exempt such an applicant from

R.8 Contents of application

       (1) Every application filed under rule 4 shall set forth concisely under distinct heads the grounds for such application. Such grounds shall be numbered consecutively. Every application including any miscellaneous application shall be typed in double space on one side on thick paper of good quality.
       (2) It shall not be necessary to present a separate application to seek an interim order or direction if in original application the same is prayed for.
       (3) An applicant may, subsequent to the filing of an application under section 19 of the Act, apply for an interim order or direction. Such an application shall, as far as possible, be in Form III.
       1[(4) Where the applicant seeks condonation of delay, he shall file a separate application supported by an affidavit.]
     

R.9 Documents to accompany the application

       (1) Every application shall be accompanied by 2[the following documents]:
       (i) an attested true copy of the order against which the application is filed.
       (ii) copies of the documents relied upon by the applicant and referred to in the application;
       (iii) an index of the documents.
       (2) The documents referred to in sub-rule (1) may be attested by a legal practitioner or by a gazetted officer and each document shall be marked serially as Annexures A1, A2, A3 and so on.
       (3) Where an application is filed by any agent, documents authorising him to act as such agent shall also be appended to the application:
       Provided that where an application is filed by a legal p

R.10 Plural remedies

       An application shall be based upon a single cause of action and may seek one or more reliefs provided that they are consequential to one another.

R.11 Service of notice and processes issued by the Tribunal

       1[(1) Notices to be issued by the Tribunal may be served by any of the following modes—
       (i) service by the party itself;
       (ii) by hand delivery (dasti) through process server;
       (iii) by registered post ‘with acknowledgement due’;
       2[(iv) through the concerned head of Office of the same Department:]
       Provided that if the Tribunal does not specify the mode of service, notice may be sent by registered post ‘with acknowledgement due’ and the provision of sub-rule (2) of rule 19A of Order V of First Schedule to the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908) shall apply to such mode of service.]
       (2) Where notice issued by the Tribunal is served by the party himsel

R.12 Filing of reply and other documents by the respondents

       (1) Each respondent intending to contest the application, shall file in triplicate the reply to the application and the documents relied upon in paper book form with the Registry within one month of the service of notice of the application on him.
       (2) In the reply filed under sub-rule (1), the respondent shall specifically admit, deny or explain the facts stated by the applicant in his application and may also state such additional facts as may be found necessary for the just decision of the case. It shall be signed and verified as a written statement by the respondent or any other person duly authorised by him in writing in the same manner as provided for in Order VI, Rule 15 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908).
       (3) The documents referred to in sub-rule (3) shall also be filed alongwith the reply and the same shall be marke

R.13 Date and place of hearing to be notified

       The Tribunal shall notify to the parties the date and the place of hearing of the application in such manner as the Chairman may by general or special order direct.

R.14 Calendar of cases

       (1) Each Bench shall draw up a calendar for the hearing of transferred cases and, as far as possible, hear and decide the cases according to the calendar.
       (2) Every application shall be heard and decided as far as possible, within six months from the date of its registration.
       (3) The Tribunal shall have the power to decline an adjournment and also to limit the time for oral arguments.

R.16 Ex parte hearing and disposal of application

       (1) Where on the date fixed for hearing the application or on any other date to which such hearing may be adjourned, the applicant appears and the respondent does not appear when the application is called for hearing, the Tribunal may, in its discretion adjourn the hearing, or hear and decide the application ex parte.
       1[(2) Where an application has been heard ex parte against a respondent or respondents such respondent or respondents may apply within 30 days from the date of the order to the Tribunal for an order to set it aside and if such respondent or respondents satisfy the Tribunal that the notice was not duly served, or that he or they were prevented by any sufficient cause from appearing when application was called for hearing the Tribunal may make an order setting aside the ex-parte order as against him or them upon such terms as it thinks fit, and shall appoint a day for p

R.17 Application for review

       (1) No application for review shall be entertained unless it is filed within thirty days from the date of receipt of copy of the order sought to be reviewed.
       (2) A review application shall ordinarily be heard by the same Bench which has passed the order, unless the Chairman may, for reasons to be recorded in writing, direct it to be heard by any other Bench.
       (3) Unless otherwise ordered by the Bench concerned, a review application shall be disposed of by circulation and the Bench may either dismiss the application or direct notice to the opposite party.
       (4) When an application for review of any judgment or order has been made and disposed of, no further application for review shall be entertained in the same manner.
       (5) No application for review sha

R.18 Substitution of legal representatives

       (1) In the case of death of a party during the pendency of the proceedings before the Tribunal, the legal representatives of the deceased party may apply within 1[ninety days] of the date of such death for being brought on record as necessary parties.
       (2) Where no application is received from the legal representatives within the period specified in sub-rule (1), the proceedings against the deceased party shall abate:
       Provided that on good and sufficient reasons the Tribunal, on an application, may set aside the order of abatement and substitute the legal representatives.
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        1. Subs. by G.S.R. 1000 (E), dated 11th October, 1988 (w.e.f. 24-10-1988).
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R.19 Adjournment of hearing

       The Tribunal may if sufficient cause is shown at any stage of proceedings grant time to the parties or any of them and adjourn the hearing of the application. The Tribunal may make such order as it thinks fit with respect to the costs occasioned by the adjournment.

R.20 Order to be signed and dated

       (1) Every order of the Tribunal shall be signed by the Member or Members constituting the Bench, which pronounced the order.
       (2) The orders shall be pronounced in open court.

R.21 Publication of orders

       (1) The Tribunal may publish its decisions which are deemed fit for publication, in a report entitled “Indian Law Report Central Administrative Tribunal.............20......” (for short ‘ILR....................... CAT............20.....’).
       (2) Such of the order of the Tribunal as are deemed fit for publication in any other authoritative report or the press may be released for such publication on such terms and conditions as the Chairman may specify by general or special order.]
        
       -----------------------
       1. Subs. by G.S.R. 1000 (E), dated 11th October, 1988 (w.e.f. 24-10-1988) and again subs. by G.S.R. 564 (E), dated 7th July, 1994 (w.e.f. 7-7-1994).
       -----------------------

R.22 Communication of order to parties

       (1) Every interim order, granting or refusing or modifying interim relief and final order shall be communicated to the applicant and to the concerned respondent or to their Counsels, either by hand delivery or by post free of costs:
       Provided that unless ordered otherwise by a Bench, a copy of the final order need not be sent to any respondent who has not entered appearance:
       Provided further that when the petitioner or the respondent is represented by a Counsel, under a single Vakalatnama, only one copy shall be supplied to such Counsel as named therein.]
       (2) If the applicant or the respondent to any proceeding requires a copy of any document or proceeding the same shall be supplied to him on such terms and conditions on payment of such fees as may be fixed by the Chairman by general or special

R.23 Inspection of the records

       (1) The parties to any case or their counsel may be allowed to inspect the record of the case on making an application in writing to the Registrar.
       (2) Subject to such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Chairman by a general or special order a person who is not a party to the proceeding, may also be allowed to inspect the proceedings after obtaining the permission of the Registrar in writing.

R.24 Order and directions in certain cases

       The Tribunal may make such orders or give such directions as may be necessary or expedient to give effect to its order or to prevent abuse of its process or to secure the ends of justice.

R.26 Working hours of the Tribunal

       Except on Saturdays, Sundays, and other public holidays, the office of the Tribunal shall, subject to any order made by the Chairman remain open from 9.30 A.M. to 6 P.M.

R.27 Sitting hours of the Tribunal

       The sitting hours of the Tribunal (including a vacation Bench) shall ordinarily be from 10.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. to 5 p.m. subject to any general or special order made by the Chairman, or by Vice-Chairman concerned with the prior approval of the Chairman.

R.28 Powers and functions of the Registrar

       (1) The Registrar shall have the custody of the records of the Tribunal and shall exercise such other functions as are assigned to him under these rules or by the Chairman or the Vice-Chairman of the Bench concerned by separate order.
       (2) The Registrar may, with the approval of the Chairman or of the Vice-Chairman of the Bench concerned delegate to the Deputy Registrar any function or power required by these rules to be performed or exercised by the Registrar.
       1[(3) In the absence of the Registrar, the Deputy Registrar or any other officer to whom the powers and functions of the Registrar are delegated by the Chairman or Vice-Chairman, as the case may be, may exercise the powers and functions of the Registrar.]
       (4) The official seal shall be kept in the custody of the Registrar.
  

R.29 Additional powers and duties of Registrar

       In addition to the powers conferred, elsewhere in these rules, the Registrar shall have the following powers and duties subject to any general or special order of the Chairman or the Vice-Chairman of the Bench concerned, namely:—
       (i) to receive all applications and other documents including transferred applications;
       (ii) to decide all questions arising out of the scrutiny of the applications before they are registered;
       (iii) to require any application presented to the Tribunal to be amended in accordance with the Act and the rules;
       (iv) subject to the direction of the respective Benches, to fix the date of first hearing of the applications or other proceedings and issue notices thereof;
       (v) to d

R.30 Additional powers of the Registrar of the Principal Bench

       The Registrar of Principal Bench shall have the power to call for information and records and to inspect or cause to be inspected the registry of the other Benches under general or special orders as may be issued by the Chairman from time to time.

R.31 Seal and emblem

       The official seal and emblem of the Tribunal shall be such as the Central Government may specify.

R.32 Dress of the Members and staff of the Tribunal

       The dress for the Members of the Tribunal (including Chairman and Vice-Chairman) and Members of the staff of the Tribunal shall be such as the Chairman may specify.

R.33 Dress of the parties

       A legal practitioner or, as the case may be, a presenting officer shall appear before the Tribunal in his professional dress, if any, and if there is no such dress.
       (i) if a male in a closed, collared coat and trousers or in a lounge suit;
       (ii) if a female, in a saree or any other customary dress of a sober colour.