In Brief
Four doctors employed in Uttar Pradesh Government health services sought voluntary retirement under Rule 56 of the Uttar Pradesh Fundamental Rules. The High Court allowed their petitions and ordered them deemed to have retired. The State Government appealed, arguing that notice of voluntary retirement does not automatically take effect after three months—it must be expressly accepted by the appointing authority. The Supreme Court held that Rule 56 of the Uttar Pradesh Fundamental Rules, with its Explanation requiring public interest consideration, does not provide for automatic retirement. The Government can refuse voluntary retirement on public interest grounds, including the need to maintain adequate medical services. The Court distinguished this from other States' rules lacking such Explanations, emphasizing that Rule interpretation depends on specific language used. The appeals were allowed and the High Court order was set aside.
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