JUDGMENT
M.C. Jain, J.
1. Heard Sri J.C. Joshi, counsel for the petitioner at length.
2. The petitioner was a drawing and disbursing officer. During the period of his employment, audit pointed out certain irregularities having financial implications. The petitioner retired in 1995. Part of his gratuity was withheld and the same was released in the year 1999. The petitioner claimed interest on the amount withheld. According to him, there is inordinate delay and he is entitled to the interest on the amount so withheld. It is clarified by the department that the excess amount paid owing to fault of the petitioner was subsequently realised from the concerned officials some time in 1999 and thereafter the amount of gratuity, which was withheld, had been released.
3. Having regard to the explanation as offered, in our opinion, petitioner is not entitled to claim interest on the amount so withheld.
4. The petition is hereby dismissed.