GRAP Doesn’t Create Enforceable Work-From-Home Right For Govt Employees: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court dismissed a plea filed by a Scientist-E employed with the Centre for Development of Telematics seeking permission to work from home due to hazardous air quality and respiratory issues.

The petitioner relied on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) directions issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management.

The Court held that GRAP guidelines are regulatory in nature and do not create enforceable personal rights for government employees against their employers. It was observed that permitting work from home remains a discretionary decision and cannot alter service conditions through judicial directions.

However, in view of the medical exigencies cited, the Court clarified that the petitioner may seek transfer on health grounds, which the employer should endeavour to consider.

[Shubham Verma v. Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Ors.]