HC upholds 15-yr recovery period for commuted pensions
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Hyderabad: The Telangana high court has upheld the state govt's policy of recovering commuted pension amounts over a 15-year period, dismissing nearly 100 petitions filed by retired govt employees.
The petitioners, including a former deputy conservator of forests, had challenged Rule 18 of the Telangana Civil Pensions (Commutation) Rules, arguing that full pension restoration should occur in 11 years and three months, rather than 15 years.
A division bench comprising Justices P Sam Koshy and N Narsing Rao ruled that the 15-year period is in line with pay commission recommendations and reflects the central govt's policy on pension commutation.
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Appearing for the govt, counsel S Suman submitted that commutation is voluntary, and employees are fully aware of the scheme's terms when they opt in. The bench concurred, stating it would be unjust to challenge the rule after availing its benefits.
Accordingly, the court dismissed all the petitions, affirming the validity of Rule 18.
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