Transfer At the Verge of Retirement - High Court Stays Controversial Transfer Order in Kangra Cooperative Bank Case
Employees raising grievance against transfer order – Employee on the verge of retirement alleging undue favoritism – High Court directing to reconsider transfer in accordance with law, keeping in view incumbencies and relevant factors.
News Report:
In a significant ruling, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has intervened in a contentious transfer order within the Kangra Central Cooperative Bank Limited, addressing grievances of favoritism and procedural irregularities. Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua presided over the case, involving petitioner Ajeet Kumar Rana, a Grade-I officer nearing retirement, who challenged his transfer from the Branch Office Dheera to Branch Office Panchrukhi.
The petitioner, represented by Advocate Rakesh Kumar Dogra, raised concerns about the abrupt transfer initiated through a triangular arrangement allegedly manipulated by respondent No.3, Rajesh, a Grade-III officer. This respondent has been accused of securing prolonged postings at Branch Office Dheera, raising questions about undue favoritism. Advocate Sohan Singh Rathore appeared for the bank, while Advocate Rakesh Thakur represented respondent No.3.
The court noted the petitioner’s impending retirement on August 31, 2026, arguing that such a transfer at this juncture was unwarranted. Additionally, the petitioner highlighted the preferential treatment of respondent No.3, who has enjoyed an extended tenure at Branch Office Dheera, serving nearly 12 years continuously before a brief two-month stint at Branch Office Khundian.
In response to these allegations, the High Court granted an interim stay on the transfer order dated May 30, 2025, maintaining the status quo at the respective postings of the petitioner and respondents No.3 and 4 until a thorough reconsideration is completed. This decision emphasizes the need for the bank to adhere to established policies and guidelines, ensuring fairness in employee transfers.
The court directed respondent No.2, the Kangra Central Cooperative Bank, to reassess the transfer orders concerning the petitioner, respondent No.3, and respondent No.4, taking into account incumbency and relevant factors. This reconsideration must be completed within two weeks, with the outcome communicated to all parties involved.
The judgment highlights the court's commitment to uphold justice and transparency in employment practices, especially concerning employees nearing retirement. The interim relief granted underscores the necessity of equitable treatment and adherence to procedural norms in organizational decisions.
The case underscores the ongoing challenges within the banking sector regarding employee transfers and favoritism, prompting the judiciary to intervene and ensure compliance with legal standards. As the bank prepares for reconsideration, the implications of this ruling may extend beyond the immediate parties, potentially influencing broader policies within cooperative banking institutions.
The writ petition, disposed of in these terms, reflects the judiciary's proactive stance in safeguarding employee rights and promoting fair governance within financial organizations. As the bank revisits its transfer decisions, stakeholders await the outcome, hoping for a resolution that aligns with principles of justice and equity.
