The Madhya Pradesh High Court has disposed of a writ petition filed by government employees seeking seniority benefits from 2010, while also making a strong observation on the growing number of service-related disputes reaching the courts. The court directed the State authorities to examine the employees’ claims through a proper administrative process and suggested a structural reform to reduce such litigation in the future.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed by Chaukhi Lal Yadav and others before the Jabalpur Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The petitioners sought a direction to the State government to grant them seniority from 1 September 2010 along with consequential pay benefits.
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Their counsel pointed out that a Coordinate Bench had already granted identical relief in Nand Kishore Patel and Others vs State of Madhya Pradesh, decided in April 2024. That judgment had subsequently survived challenge before the Division Bench and even the Supreme Court, where the State’s Special Leave Petition was dismissed in July 2025.
On the basis of this precedent, the petitioners argued that they were entitled to the same benefit without further delay.
Court’s Observation
After hearing both sides, Justice Vinay Saraf noted that although similar relief had been granted earlier, the present petition required consideration by the competent authority first.
The court observed that instead of directly granting the relief, it would be appropriate to allow the petitioners to formally approach the department with their claim.
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“The petition is disposed of with liberty to the petitioners to submit detailed representations before the competent authority,” the court noted.
The judge further clarified that the High Court was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the claim at this stage.
Direction to the State Government
The High Court directed the petitioners to submit individual representations within 30 days. Upon receipt, the competent authority has been instructed to:
- Examine the representations strictly in accordance with applicable rules
- Pass a reasoned and speaking order
- Complete the process within 45 days
The court also directed that the final decision must be communicated to the petitioners without delay.
Strong Remarks on Rising Service Litigation
In a significant observation, the court expressed concern over the increasing number of service-related cases flooding the High Court.
Justice Saraf remarked that many disputes relating to seniority, pay scale, promotion, transfer, suspension, and regularisation could be resolved at the departmental level if a proper mechanism existed.
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“The High Court is flooded with service matters which can be avoided,” the court observed.
The judge suggested that the State government should:
- Create a structured grievance redressal mechanism
- Empower designated officers in every department to decide employee grievances
- Consider appointing retired district judges to resolve disputes if necessary
According to the court, such a system would save time, money, and effort for both employees and the government.
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Court’s Final Decision
Disposing of the petition, the High Court:
- Allowed the petitioners to file representations
- Directed timely disposal by authorities
- Declined to comment on merits
- Recommended creation of an internal dispute resolution system
The court also ordered that a copy of the judgment be forwarded to the Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh for consideration of the suggestions made.
Case Title: Chaukhi Lal Yadav and Others vs State of Madhya Pradesh and Others
Case Number: Writ Petition No. 1733 of 2026
Decision Date: 28 January 2026
