1984 PLC(CS) 1282

This appeal is directed against the decision, dated 8th August, 1983 passed by the learned Presiding Officer, Punjab Labour Court No. 6, Rawalpindi, whereby the respondent was directed to be re‑instated in service without back benefits.

2. The allegation against the respondent was that he had absented himself from duty at 6‑00 p. m. on 5th February, 1982 and on account of his absence thieves broke the outdoor, strong room and locks of almiras but could not succeed in removing anything. The plea of the respondent was that he had gone to take meals and to attend the call of nature.

3. It has been argued by the learned counsel for the appellant that since locks of outdoor, strong room and almiras were broken, it is evident that the respondent remained absent for a considerable period inten tionally and not for the purpose of attending the call of nature. This is common ground that the respondent was to give over‑time duty after the close of his normal duty hours. This being so, this is believable that he wanted to attend the call of nature. Continuous working for more than eight hours is indicative of the fact that the persons concerned require some break for meals and to attend the call of nature. The employer should make, arrangements for at least laterines. This is not the case of the appellant that there was any such arrangement near the place of duty. The absence was, therefore, not intentional. However, this has been wrongly held by the learned lower Court that single incident was not sufficient. So far as members of security guards are concerned, their absence is not simpliciter but amounts to neglect of duty and single instance is sufficient to constitute misconduct.

4. The appeal is time‑barred also. The date of decision of the learned lower Court is 8th August, 1983. Application for copy was given on 15th August, 1983. Copy was supplied on 16th August, 1983. Computing one day spent in supplying copy, excluding a day for copy was supplied the last day for filing appeal was 9th September, 1983 but the appeal was presented on 10th September, 1983 and thus was time‑barred.

5. As a result, the appeal is dismissed as time‑barred as well as on merits.

A. E. Appeal dismissed.