FST Judgment on Deduction of Advance Increments for BA Education Qualification
The Federal Service Tribunal (FST) Islamabad recently passed a critical judgment regarding the deduction of advance increments for the BA (Education) qualification. This case highlights the challenges faced by government employees regarding educational qualification increments and the decisions by various authorities like the Finance Division and the Military Accountant General (MAG).
Judgment Details
The judgment was passed on 16-10-2023 in Appeal No. 183(PCS/2020, filed by Mr. Muhammad Ishfaq against the Finance Division and other respondents. The Military Accountant General issued a related notification (letter No. 260/Lit/341/FST/183(P)CS-2020, dated 27-08-2024).
The case brought forth the matter of advance increments granted for higher educational qualifications, specifically in the light of a precedent set by Mr. Zahoor Ahmed’s case, which was settled by the Finance Division vide O.M. No. F/1(6)Imp/2000-Vol-XXii-487, dated 06-01-2023. The tribunal directed that all similar cases should be resolved as per the FST’s judgment dated 05-09-2019.
Background of Zahoor Ahmed’s Case
- Date of Institution: 13-01-2016
- Date of Hearing: 03-09-2019
- Date of Judgment: 05-09-2019
Appellant: Zahoor Ahmed (Son of Muhammad Suleman, Late), residing in Rawalpindi Cantt.
Respondents:
- Finance Division (Regulation Wing), Islamabad
- Controller General of Accounts (CGA), Islamabad
- Military Accountant General, Rawalpindi
The appellant, Zahoor Ahmed, was aggrieved by the impugned order dated 30-06-2015, rejecting his departmental representation for the grant of advance increments.
Case Summary
Zahoor Ahmed was appointed as a Junior Auditor (BS-05) in the Pakistan Military Accounts Department in 1975 with the required matric qualification. Over the years, he improved his education and passed the departmental promotion examination, earning a promotion to Auditor (BS-07) in 1977.
In 1991, Zahoor Ahmed was granted two advance increments based on his improved qualification (F.Sc), as per the Finance Division’s O.M. dated 18-06-2011. However, at the time of his retirement, a sum of Rs. 282,709/- was deducted from his commutation, stating he was not entitled to the increments. His requests to the MAG and CGA for restoring the increments were rejected, leading him to appeal to the FST.
FST Judgment
After reviewing the evidence and arguments from both parties, the tribunal ruled in favor of the appellant, emphasizing that the deductions made from his retirement benefits were unjustified. It directed that all similar cases should follow the precedent set in Zahoor Ahmed’s case, ensuring that employees receive their rightful increments without unfair deductions.
Implications of the Judgment
The FST judgment serves as a landmark decision, reinforcing the principle of fair treatment for government employees who earn educational increments. The Finance Division and Military Accountant General are now obligated to address similar cases promptly in light of the judgment.
Government employees affected by such deductions are encouraged to file their claims referencing this judgment to ensure justice and proper compensation for their educational achievements.
