IN THE HIGH COURT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH, SHIMLA. CWP(T) No.: 4650 of 2008. Decided on: 24.08.2010. __________________________________________________________ Rajesh Bhardwaj. … Petitioner. Versus State of Himachal Pradesh and others. … Respondents. Coram The Hon’ble Mr. Justice Rajiv Sharma, J. Whether approved for reporting?1 No. For the Petitioner : Mr. B.N. Mehta, Advocate. For the Respondents : Mr. P.M. Negi, Deputy Advocate General with Mr. R.P. Singh, Assistant Advocate General. Rajiv Sharma, J. (Oral): Petitioner’s pay was withheld for the period with effect from 1st February, 1991 to 3rd October, 1991. This salary was released to the petitioner on 12th August, 1997 without paying any interest. The salary is a property within the meaning of Article 300-A of the Constitution of India and it cannot be withheld except in accordance with law. Once a conscious decision has been taken to release the salary of the petitioner for the period with effect from 1st February, 1991 to 3rd October, 1991 on 12th August, 1997, the petitioner was entitled to reasonable interest on the same. The petitioner has been deprived of the salary for the period of about eight months. 1 Whether the reporters of Local Papers may be allowed to see the judgment? No. - 2 - 2. Consequently, the respondents are directed to release and pay interest to the petitioner @ 7% per annum from 3rd October, 1991 till 12th August, 1997. The same shall be done within a period of 12 weeks after the receipt of the certified copy of this judgment. 3. In view of the observations made hereinabove, the petition stands disposed of, so also the pending application(s), if any. No costs. (Rajiv Sharma), Judge. August 24, 2010. (sck).