Dinesh Mehta, J.:—
IA No. 1/2021:
1. For the reasons stated, the application seeking preponement of the date is allowed.
2. The matter is taken up for consideration today.
SBCWP No. 14961/2017:
3. Mr. Gupta, learned counsel for the petitioner submits that the issue involved in the present writ petition is squarely covered by a coordinate Bench decision dated 16.12.2014 rendered in the case of Dr. Kalpana Singh v. State of Rajasthan (SBCWP No. 4526/2014).
4. Ms. Bhansali, learned counsel appearing for the respondent - State while conceding that the matter is covered as claimed by the petitioner, however submits that looking to the unprecedented situation of spread of pandemic, at least a period of six months be granted to the State for acceptance of petitioner's application for voluntary retirement.
5. Having heard learned counsel for the parties, this Court is of the considered opinion that the issue involved in the present case is squarely covered by the decision rendered by this Court in Dr. Kalpana Singh's case (supra).
6. The judgment of Dr. Kalpana Singh shall apply in the present case and the petitioner shall be permitted to be voluntary retired. However, while striking a balance between State's requirement on account of COVID-19 vis-a-vis petitioner's will to leave, it is hereby ordered that respondent-State shall make petitioner's voluntary retirement applicable w.e.f. 31.10.2021.
7. The respondents shall issue requisite order in this regard forthwith and all consequential benefits shall be paid to the petitioner in accordance with law.
8. The writ petition stands allowed in above terms. Stay application also stands disposed of.
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