Madras High Court: Jeep Driver's Petition for Job Reinstatement Dismissed

Quick Summary: R. Pandian wanted to keep his job as a Jeep Driver, but the court said no. Here's what happened.

The Background: Jeep Driver Job Loss

R. Pandian worked as a Jeep Driver and was paid daily for the Assistant Director of Agriculture in Melur, Madurai. He started on October 7, 2014, and his job was renewed regularly. But things changed on December 22, 2017, when he was suddenly let go.

First Attempt: Challenging the Termination

Pandian first tried to get his job back by filing W.P.(MD) No. 4184 of 2018. The court dismissed this because the Joint Director had already issued a letter ending his job on June 1, 2017. The court did suggest he could legally challenge the termination.

Second Attempt: Another Petition

Not giving up, Pandian filed W.P.(MD) No. 9570 of 2018 to challenge his termination. The court ordered the Joint Director to look into Pandian's case, especially since other drivers in similar situations were given their jobs back.

“The petitioner’s representations...shall be considered by the respondent...and pass orders thereon on merits...” - Court's Direction

The Final Decision: Why Pandian Lost

The Joint Director reviewed Pandian’s case and decided his performance was not good enough. They mentioned he had been involved in an accident, which made officers hesitant to travel with him. So, they declined his request to be reinstated.

Court's Conclusion: No Merit in the Petition

Pandian argued that after working for 3.5 years, he deserved to keep his job. However, the court noted that his original appointment letter clearly stated his job was temporary and could be ended anytime.

“...this Court finds no merit in the writ petition. Accordingly, the writ petition is dismissed.” - Justice A.D. Maria Clete

In the end, the court dismissed Pandian's petition on August 22, 2025, with no order for costs. Justice A.D. Maria Clete made the final call.