The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has recently gained increased attention due to its special initiative across all its 19 benches. The drive was aimed at efficiently addressing and resolving cases primarily involving senior citizens and pensioners. This move is representative of CAT’s primary function and its commitment to safeguard the rights of the public servants of the country.
Establishment of the Central Administrative Tribunal
CAT was founded under Article 323-A of the Indian Constitution with an aim to adjudicate disputes and handle complaints related to recruitment and service conditions of persons in public services. These individuals either are related directly to Union affairs or are associated with other authorities under the control of the Government. This establishment transpired during Rajeev Gandhi’s tenure as Prime Minister, marking a significant shift in the manner of addressing public servants’ grievances.
Legal Framework
In adherence to Article 323-A, the Administrative Tribunals Act was passed by the Parliament in 1985. This act empowers the Central Government to establish a Central Administrative Tribunal and also state administrative tribunals. The implementation of this act was path-breaking as it provided a faster, more efficient and cost-effective avenue for aggrieved public servants to get justice.
About the CAT Benches
The CAT operates through 19 benches that are spread across different regions of India. Every bench plays an instrumental role in resolving disputes and facilitating justice.
Objective and Composition of CAT
As a specialised body, CAT comprises both Administrative Members and Judicial Members. Owing to their expertise and knowledge, these members are well equipped to deliver quick and effective justice. A Chairman, who is or has been a Judge of a High Court, supervises and leads CAT.
The Operating Principles
The Tribunal is driven by the principles of natural justice while adjudicating cases. It operates independently from the procedure prescribed by the Civil Procedure Code. Under Section 17 of the Administrative Tribunal Act, 1985, CAT is endowed with the same jurisdiction and authority as a High Court when it comes to handling contempt of itself.
Independence of CAT
The service conditions for the Chairman and Members of CAT are on par with those applicable to a High Court judge as per the Administrative Tribunals (Amendment) Act, 2006. This provision showcases the tribunal’s status and importance in the legal framework of the nation.
Appeals against CAT Orders
In the event of any disagreement with the orders given by the CAT, an appeal can be made via a Writ Petition under Article 226/227 of the Constitution. This petition has to be submitted to the respective High Court within whose territorial jurisdiction the Tribunal bench is located.
Examining the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
A 2009 query from the UPSC Civil Services Examination asked for an evaluation of two statements concerning CAT. The first statement falsely claimed that CAT was established under Lal Bahadur Shastri’s Prime Ministership. The second, accurate statement outlined that CAT’s members come from both judicial and administrative backgrounds. This question not only tests a candidate’s knowledge about CAT but also highlights its significance in public service examinations.
