Filing a case before the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) requires more than just identifying a service dispute. Even if the case is valid, improper or incomplete documentation can lead to objections, delays, or outright dismissal.
Government employees frequently ask:
“What documents do I need to file a CAT case?”
This blog provides a comprehensive, step-by-step checklist of required documents, ensuring your Original Application (OA) is maintainable, complete, and ready for smooth processing.
Why Proper Documentation Is Crucial in CAT Cases
CAT is a quasi-judicial forum with strict adherence to statutory requirements. Filing without proper documents can result in:
- OA being returned for rectification
- Limitation objections
- Difficulty in obtaining interim relief
- Weakening of case merits
Proper documentation is the foundation of a strong CAT case.
Essential Documents Required to File a CAT Case
1️⃣ Personal and Employment Details
- Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport)
- Service certificate or employment letter
- Appointment letter (temporary, probationary, or permanent)
- Latest pay slip or salary statement
These documents establish your employment under the Central Government or relevant authority.
2️⃣ Official Orders Related to Dispute
Depending on your service matter, you need to attach:
- Transfer or posting orders
- Suspension order
- Charge sheet or disciplinary notice
- Promotion or confirmation orders
- Increment or pay fixation orders
Tip: Always attach both the order and acknowledgment of receipt.
3️⃣ Correspondence with Department / Employer
- Show that departmental remedies were exhausted (if applicable)
- Attach reply letters, email communication, or representation copies
This demonstrates good faith and procedural compliance.
4️⃣ Supporting Evidence
- Evidence relevant to your claim
- Seniority lists
- Performance appraisal reports
- Pay fixation calculations
- Medical or fitness certificates (if applicable)
Evidence strengthens your case on merits and helps CAT issue interim relief if necessary.
5️⃣ Limitation Justification (if required)
If filing beyond the standard 1-year limitation, attach documents supporting cause of delay:
- Departmental correspondence
- Pending inquiry documents
- Medical or personal reasons (if applicable)
Proper justification increases the likelihood of condonation of delay.
6️⃣ Reliefs Sought
Clearly specify the relief you are requesting from CAT. Supporting documents help prove entitlement to relief, for example:
- Stay of transfer
- Reinstatement after suspension
- Pay fixation correction
- Promotion seniority correction
7️⃣ Affidavit or Verification
An OA must include an affidavit verifying the facts.
- Signed and notarized
- Confirms truthfulness of statements
- Ensures legal responsibility for false claims
8️⃣ Index & Annexures
- All documents must be properly numbered and indexed
- Annexures referenced in the OA
- Helps the CAT bench quickly verify facts
Tip: Avoid attaching irrelevant documents—CAT may reject excessive annexures.
Optional Documents for Stronger OA Filing
- Previous CAT judgments supporting your claim
- Departmental circulars or service rules
- Union or association letters (if applicable)
- Medical certificates for suspension/retirement cases
These add legal weight to your OA and improve chances of interim relief.
Practical Checklist Before Filing a CAT Case
- ✅ Gather employment and identity documents
- ✅ Attach all relevant official orders
- ✅ Include departmental correspondence
- ✅ Provide evidence supporting the claim
- ✅ Prepare limitation justification (if applicable)
- ✅ Draft a verified OA with annexures and index
Filing an incomplete OA is a common reason for early dismissal or delay.
Conclusion
Proper documentation is the backbone of any CAT case. Knowing what documents to include, how to organize them, and how to present them can make the difference between success and dismissal.
Government employees should seek legal guidance to ensure every document is in order, claims are properly framed, and limitation issues are addressed.
More Legal Topics to Read
Who can file a case before CAT?
What is meant by “service matters” under CAT jurisdiction?
Difference between CAT and High Court in service law matters
What is an Original Application (OA) before CAT?
What types of government employees commonly approach CAT?
Under what circumstances does CAT quash departmental inquiries?
What is the scope of judicial review by CAT in service matters?
Can CAT set aside punishment orders imposed in disciplinary proceedings?
Can contractual or ad-hoc employees approach CAT?
Are PSU employees covered under CAT jurisdiction?
What are the most common mistakes while filing CAT cases?
CAT remedies for police personnel facing disciplinary action
Pay fixation & MACP disputes of government employees before CAT
Challenging CAT orders before the High Court