Punjab and Haryana HC raps DGP on out-of-turn promotions, calls for merit-based approach
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a stern advisory to the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) regarding the practice of granting out-of-turn promotions in the police force. While acknowledging that the DGP has the authority under Rule 13.21 to grant such promotions, the court emphasised that the exercise of this power must be based on merit and not arbitrary discretion.
The advisory came while disposing of two petitions filed by police officials who claimed they had a distinguished service record and had received multiple appreciation letters during their tenure. Despite their qualifications and being recommended for promotion, the officials alleged that a junior colleague was granted an out-of-turn promotion instead of them.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court noted that arbitrary use of out-of-turn promotions could lead to dissatisfaction and unrest within the police force. The Bench clarified that while it cannot order the DGP to grant promotions under Rule 13.21, it strongly urged that the rule be implemented with integrity, fairness, and in accordance with merit.
- PTC NEWS
