The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant interim stay in a plea filed by a national-level sportsperson alleging that a misinterpretation of service rules resulted in the loss of more than five years of seniority and adversely affected his promotional prospects.

Appearing before the Court, counsel for the petitioner submitted that the athlete was unable to complete the prescribed training period within two years owing to his participation in professional cricket commitments, including the Ranji Trophy. It was argued that despite the delay being linked to sporting duties, the petitioner was never informed that it would lead to forfeiture of his seniority.

Counsel contended that the petitioner ought to have been granted seniority upon completion of probation like other similarly placed employees. However, he was allegedly pushed down the seniority list to serial number 49, causing him to lose promotion opportunities to several juniors on multiple occasions.

Seeking urgent relief, counsel urged the Court to fix an early hearing and grant interim protection, arguing that further delay would irreversibly impact the petitioner’s career progression.

The Supreme Court, however, declined to pass a stay order at this stage and directed that the matter be listed for hearing on a later date.

Further, the Court also allowed modification regarding service upon the respondent DSPs of the State of Haryana through the DGP, Haryana Police.

Appearances:

For the Petitioner (Joginder Sharma Former Indian Cricketer): Advocate DK Banerji

For Geetika Jakhar Former Indian wrestler : Advocate Prateek Som