CAT seeks recruitment records in IUST Librarian case

16/09/2026

JAMMU, Sep 15: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Srinagar Bench, has directed the production of recruitment and service records relating to appointments made by the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) under Advertisement Notice No. 01 of 2024 while hearing a challenge to the repatriation of Dr Sheikh Mohammad Imran from the post of Librarian.
A Bench comprising Member (Judicial) M.S. Latif and Member (Administrative) Prasant Kumar passed the directions in O.A. No. 997/2026 filed by Dr Imran against IUST and the University of Kashmir.
Dr Imran has challenged IUST Order No. 611/2026 dated June 1, 2026, seeking its quashing on the ground that his repatriation was illegal, arbitrary and without jurisdiction. He has also sought continuation as Librarian at IUST or, alternatively, permission to rejoin his substantive post at the University of Kashmir without prejudice to his rights in the pending proceedings.
The applicant was earlier serving as Assistant Librarian at the University of Kashmir. Following an advertisement issued by IUST, he participated in the selection process and was appointed Librarian in Academic Pay Level-14 through an appointment order dated January 17, 2025. His technical resignation from the University of Kashmir was subsequently accepted, while his lien on the substantive post of Assistant Librarian was retained for one year.
Advocate FaizanMajidBhat, appearing for the applicant along with advocates Aatiya and Irfaan Rasool, submitted that Dr Imran was selected through direct recruitment and was not a deputationist. He contended that similarly situated candidates recruited under the same advertisement had subsequently been regularised or confirmed.
Syed Musaib, DAG, appeared for IUST, while advocate AsifMaqbool represented the University of Kashmir.
After hearing the parties, the Tribunal directed the respondents to produce appointment orders of candidates selected pursuant to Advertisement Notice No. 01 of 2024, their service agreements and the service agreement executed with the applicant.
The Tribunal also sought an explanation regarding the circumstances in which subsequent university orders were issued concerning other candidates selected through the same recruitment process.
The records have been directed to be produced in a sealed cover through an officer not below the rank of Deputy Registrar.
On the issue of Dr Imran's lien, the Tribunal directed the University of Kashmir to take a decision before September 17, noting that the existing lien was due to expire on that date.
It also clarified that even if the applicant rejoins the University of Kashmir, the rights raised by him in O.A. Nos. 552/2026 and 997/2026 would remain subject to the final outcome of the two cases.
The matter has been listed for further consideration on October 27.

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