' KHILJI ARIF HUSSAIN, J.--- It is contended by the learned counsel for the petitioner that no opportunity of hearing has been given to the petitioner; that notice of absence was not served upon the petitioner and that the Tribunal misdirected by holding that his departmental appeal was barred by time.
2. The learned Additional Advocate-General, frankly stated and IB rightly so that in the absence of the parties the Tribunal cannot decide the appeal on merit.
3. After hearing the learned counsel for the parties and going through the material available on file, we convert this petition into appeal and allow. The impugned judgment passed by the Federal Service is set aside and the matter is remanded for decision afresh strictly in accordance with law after hearing the parties.