High Court queries irregularities in priority house allotments to Policemen in Chandigarh

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised concerns over the out-of-turn allocation of government houses to policemen in Chandigarh. The court emphasized that Clause 3 of Rule 11(f) in The Government Residents (Chandigarh Administration General Pool) Allotment Rules, 1996 explicitly prohibits house allotments on security grounds.

Details sought on house availability and seniority list

The court's inquiry stemmed from a plea filed in August, prompting the court to request information on the availability of houses for police officers, especially those from other states on special duties. Additionally, the court sought clarification from the UT (Union Territory) on whether a seniority list is maintained for applicants seeking out-of-turn allotments, including their ranks.

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The bench, led by Justice Sandeep Moudgil, expressed dissatisfaction with the details presented, including lists and other particulars of government employees allotted houses out of turn. The court questioned the premise that police officials were performing special duties in the public interest and were attached to public servants.

Next hearing scheduled

The court has adjourned the matter until January 9, directing the UT's counsel to submit a detailed affidavit. The affidavit should elaborate on the working hours of police officials, especially those working odd hours, and provide the names of public servants with whom they are posted. The court has specifically requested information on house allotments made on security concerns.

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