Jaipur. The Rajasthan High Court has granted interim relief in a case challenging the state government’s recent reorganization of the Excise Department.
The petitioners argued that the government’s order dated June 1 conflicts with existing service rules and therefore cannot be legally enforced through an administrative decision alone.
During the hearing, the court observed that separate service rules for the General Branch and the Preventive Branch are currently in force and have not been abolished.
The court noted that introducing a new administrative structure without first notifying new service rules could adversely affect the rights of employees working under the existing framework.
The High court further observed that such changes may create disputes related to seniority, promotions, recruitment, and other service matters.
According to the court, implementing a new structure while existing rules remain in force raises legal concerns and could lead to avoidable litigation.
Considering the potential impact on employees’ rights, the court granted interim relief and stayed the implementation and operation of the government’s June 1’s order until further directions.
The court clarified that the order is temporary in nature and does not represent a final decision on the merits of the case.
Notices have been issued to the state government and other respondents, who have been directed to submit their replies.
The court also stated that the government is free to seek modification or vacation of the interim stay through appropriate legal proceedings.
Employee representatives have welcomed the decision, stating that the reorganization could have affected the seniority, promotion prospects, and service rights of a large number of officers and staff if implemented without a clear legal framework.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on July 7. Until then, the existing service structure of the Excise Department will continue to remain in force.