MUKUNDAKAM SHARMA, CJ. - (1.) Challenge in this appeal is to the order dated 7th August, 2007 passed by the learned Single Judge whereby the writ petitions filed by the respondents herein were allowed holding that the respondents are entitled to receive pension.
(2.) Pursuant to the office order dated 27th November, 1992, issued by the appellant-DTC, the respondents herein, who were employees of the appellant, had opted for the pension scheme within the period of 30 days as prescribed in the office order. The scheme was made effective from 3rd August, 1981 and was made compulsory for all new employees and was also applicable to all the existing employees including those who had retired after 3rd August, 1981.
(3.) Clause 3 of the aforesaid pension scheme, which is relevant for the purpose of this appeal reads as under: "All the existing employees including those retired w.e.f. 3.8.1981 onwards would have the option to opt for the pension scheme or the employees contributory provident fund as at present, within thirty days from the date of issue of this O.O. for the implementation of the pension scheme as approved by the Government of India.";