KARACHI, May 1: The Federal Service Tribunal issued notices to the National Bank of Pakistan in 15 appeals by voluntarily retired employees seeking ad hoc relief and benefits given to the bank employees while they were still in service.

Appearing for the appellants, Advocate Islam Hussain submitted before an FST bench, comprising Qazi Mohammad Hussain and Rashid Ali Mirza, that that his clients served the bank at its branches in Karachi, Hyderabad and Quetta.

They opted for retirement under the ‘golden handshake scheme with effect from 1997.

The appellants were, however, not relieved on the date of retirement. They remained in service till 1998-99. Meanwhile, the bank employees were given ad hoc relief and certain other benefits, which were withheld from them. The appellants said since they were in employment at the time of grant of relief, they were entitled to the same.

Admitting the appeals, FST bench issued notices to the NBP for regular hearing from Sept 1.