Dear Editor,
But as usual the poor Pensioners had to face today also the Great Shock And Disappointment again in spite of the hype created that our case is numbered this time as No.1 for the day. But in reality our case stood at Serial No.5 for the day, because there were 4 other cases listed for the day before the so called No.1 case could be called, whether they are Miscellaneous cases or otherwise.
Our case Managers felt and hoped that these 4 cases before our case in the day will be over in a "few minutes" after 10 AM and our chances for being "taken on board" are very bright. But alas much to their great discomfiture and disappointment even before the 3rd case hearing could be over, the rising time of the Court fixed for the day i.e. 1 PM had come resulting in the postponement of the remaining cases in the List for the day.
Whether directly or indirectly THE COURT HAD OBLIGED THE LIC COUNSEL WHO SOUGHT 2 WEEKS TIME before the case could be taken up for FINAL HEARING. This makes one to think if the MOF/GOI which is talking about "Ripple Effect in Banking Industry" is behind this move as they expect the Bank Employees Wage Settlement which is in the final stages is likely to be clinched before February next.
If this doubt is correct, there is every possibility that our cases will not be decided by the SC before the Bank Settlement is reached, whatever efforts are taken by our Case Managers and their Counsels. Even the LIC Chairman who met some of our Leaders in Hyderabad had assured that on the part of LIC, no adjournment will be sought in the SC. But after all he is under the direct control of MOF BABUS, who are the ultimate deciding Authority in the matter.
J.M. ABOOBUCKER