SC directs full implementation of employee upgradation policies

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ruled that employee upgradation policies must be implemented without discrimination or unnecessary conditions, ensuring that approved benefits reach employees without delays.

The decision came in response to an appeal filed by the Establishment Division against the Islamabad High Court (IHC) order directing the upgradation of Naval Headquarters employees.

The case involved employees working as Machine Supervisors/Data Control Supervisors (BS-14) and Control Assistants (BS-12). The Ministry of Defence (MoD) forwarded their upgrade request in 2018, proposing a re-designation of posts to the Data Control Officer (BS-16).

However, the Establishment Division only approved a partial upgrade in 2019, leading employees to challenge the decision in the IHC, which ruled in their favor.

The Supreme Court upheld the IHC’s decision, stating that approved policies must be implemented in their true spirit without interference from other departments. The judgment noted that unwarranted objections from finance or administrative departments often hinder policy execution, creating workplace disparities.

The court emphasized that equal treatment and opportunities in employment are essential for a harmonious work environment. It ruled that once a policy is approved by the Chief Executive, it must be executed fully, and any actions causing discrimination or undue delays should be avoided.