This came into effect from May 3, 1969, vide notification no. G-2-1032/X-915-1966, dated March 28, 1969. Before that date this Article stood as follows:

960. Subject to the provisions of the preceding Article, the arrears of pension of a deceased pensioner may be paid to the heirs of the deceased, without the production of the usual legal authority, to the extent of Rs. 500 under the orders of the Collector or other officer responsible for the payment, after such enquiry into the rights and title of the claimants as may be deemed suficient. Any excess above Rs. 500 may similarly be paid under the orders of the Local government on execution of an indemnity bond, with such sureties as it may require, if it is satisfied of the right and title of the claimant and considers that undue delay and hardship would be caused by insisting on the production of letters of administration.

In any case of doubt, payment should be made only to the person producing legal authority.

NOTE—heads of Departments may exercise the powers vested in the Local government under the above Article subject to the conditions laid down therein.