J&K High Court Requires Staff to Obtain Permission Before Sitting Exams or Pursuing Studies

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court issued a directive mandating that every government employee obtain explicit permission before participating in any competitive examinations or enrolling in academic programmes. The order, delivered through a bench of the court, seeks to ensure that staff commitments do not conflict with official duties and that the recruitment process remains transparent.

According to the judgment, staff members must submit a formal request to their respective department heads, outlining the nature of the exam or course and the anticipated time commitment. Approval must be granted in writing before the candidate can register or appear for the assessment. The court emphasized that non‑compliance could attract disciplinary action under existing service rules.

Education officials and senior bureaucrats welcomed the ruling, noting that it will streamline leave management and prevent ad‑hoc disruptions in public services. Unions representing employees have been urged to inform their members about the new procedure and to assist in filing applications where needed.