Central Administrative Tribunal
Why it Matters?
The Central Administrative Tribunal dismissed ED Deputy Director P. Radhakrishnan’s plea against his transfer from Kochi to Srinagar, citing the need for a fair inquiry into harassment allegations.
What You Should Know?
CAT is created under the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985 in pursuance of Article 323A of the Constitution.
It adjudicates disputes and complaints regarding recruitment and service conditions of public servants under the Union and certain local authorities.
It covers All India Services, Central Civil Services, and employees of the Central Government and Union Territories; excludes armed forces, Supreme Court, and High Court staff.
Its Principal Bench in New Delhi with several regional benches across India.
It consists of a Chairman, Vice-Chairmen, and Judicial & Administrative Members. Chairman and Members appointed by the President of India.
Members generally serve for a term of 4 years or until the age of 65 years (Chairman) / 62 years (Members), whichever is earlier.
CAT is not bound by the Civil Procedure Code; guided by principles of natural justice.
Orders of CAT can be challenged before the High Court (after L. Chandra Kumar case, 1997).