Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 4: In a significant judgment upholding the rights of contractual employees, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh quashed the termination of Dr. Shazia Salam, a contractual Anaesthetist at DRDO Hospital, Srinagar, citing violations of principles of natural justice and constitutional safeguards.
Justice Sanjay Dhar observed that the termination, based on a CID report branding Dr. Salam as "vulnerable and unsuitable for government service," was passed without any prior notice, inquiry, or opportunity of hearing-making it stigmatic and unsustainable in law.
"Termination based on unproven allegations is punitive and violates Article 21 and 23 of the Constitution," the Court held, directing authorities to ensure the termination order does not hinder her future employment.
The Court also came down heavily on the government for extracting work from the petitioner till February 2023 while denying her salary from July 2022 onward. "This is nothing but exploitation," the judgment read, ordering the administration to pay Dr. Salam her dues-including one month's salary in lieu of notice-within two months, failing which interest at 6% per annum shall apply. (JNF) |
