As per case facts, the State and its functionaries appealed against Single Judge judgments allowing employees to file Property Declarations beyond government-extended deadlines. The 1959 Conduct Rules, amended in 2021, ... mandate annual property declarations by January 31st, making it a prerequisite for promotion, with non-compliance leading to disciplinary action. The government had extended the deadline twice for 2024 (until 28.02.2025 and 31.05.2025), but respondents failed to comply. The question arose whether the Single Judge could extend this deadline, overriding mandatory rules and executive discretion. Finally, the High Court found the rule mandatory, not directory, given its language and consequences. It emphasized the rule's role in combating corruption and promoting transparency, and stated that the Single Judge erred by usurping executive power to grant further extensions. The High Court set aside the Single Judge's judgments and dismissed the employees' petitions.