What is the Central Administrative Tribunal?

The Central Administrative Tribunal was established in accordance with Article 323A of the Constitution of India. It was set up under the Central Administrative Tribunal Act, 1985. There are in total 17 Benches and 21 Circuit Benches of CAT across India. The Principal Bench is located in New Delhi and deals with administrative matters pertaining to the NCR region.

What is the purpose of the Central Administrative Tribunal?

The CAT decides matters involving disputes and complaints pertaining to appointments and service rules related to jobs under the Public Service Commission, Central and State Governments. The All India Services covered by CAT for dealing with legal matters include the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Forest Service (IFoS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and other services under the Central Government like the Ministries and Public Services (CAG, UPSC, etc.). 

Who heads the Central Administrative Tribunal?

The Central Administrative Tribunal is headed by a Chairperson. The CAT also consists of Judicial and Administrative Members. It may be noted that a person who is or has been a High Court Judge can be appointed as a Chairman. A person who has held the office of Vice-Chairman for at least 2 years is also eligible to be appointed as the Chairman of CAT. The Administrative Members need to hold specific service posts as per the Act, and Judicial Members are qualified to be a High Court Judge or other post as specified in the Act. People often have this query - Who appoints the members of CAT? The members are appointed by the President after consultation with the Governor of the State concerned.

What are the powers and functions of CAT?

• The Central Administrative Tribunal plays a crucial role in resolving grievances pertaining to the Administrative service sector. 

• They hear legal matters concerned with the services of persons appointed in specific services under the Central and State Governments.

• They are the saviours for protecting the rights of employees engaged with the Central Government when it comes to service rules.

• Being a Tribunal, CAT has the power to summon witnesses, examine evidence, and make decisions which are legally binding.

• Apart from hearing matters directly presented before the CAT, it also acts as an appellate tribunal against the decisions of specific administrative tribunals. 

Legal Experts at Online Legal Query assist people who need to be presented before the Central Administrative Tribunal. It is easy to connect online through OLQ website and discussions help understand the legalities and crucial aspects of the laws pertaining to the service rules and the Central Administrative Tribunal Rules.