2008 (1) TMI 943 - SC - Indian Laws

Widow denied pension due to scheme eligibility criteria; legal provisions upheld over sentiments

Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Versus Surji Devi

The Supreme Court held that the widow of a deceased work-charged employee was not entitled to family pension under a different scheme, as the deceased's ... - Issues involved:The issue involves whether family members of a deceased employee appointed on a work-charged basis are entitled to family pension.Factual Matrix:The deceased employee was appointed on a work-charge basis and continued in the same capacity until his demise. The widow of the deceased employee filed for family pension under a different scheme despite the deceased being a member of a Contributory Provident Fund.Legal Analysis:The Supreme Court analyzed the Punjab Civil Services Rules and relevant provisions to determine the eligibility for family pension. The Rules specify conditions for service to qualify for pension, including substantive and permanent employment paid by the government.Interpretation of Schemes:Two schemes were identified - one for Contributory Provident Fund and another for Pension. The Court highlighted that the Family Pension Scheme excludes work-charge staff, emphasizing the distinction between pensionable and non-pensionable establishments.Decision and Rationale:The Court held that the widow was not entitled to family pension as the deceased was a work-charge employee whose services were not regularized. Sentiments and sympathy were deemed insufficient grounds to override legal provisions. The Court differentiated the case from previous judgments and directed that benefits already paid to the respondent need not be recovered.Conclusion:The appeal was allowed, and the respondent was not entitled to family pension due to the nature of the deceased employee's employment. The Court emphasized adherence to statutory provisions and ruled in favor of the appellants. No costs were awarded in the case.