To the Head of Office. Subject: Reply to show cause notice. Sir, with reference to the show cause notice issued to me regarding the delay in the disposal of certain files, I most respectfully submit the following facts for your kind consideration. During the period mentioned in the notice, I was looking after the work of two sections, as one of my colleagues was on long medical leave. In addition, I was also deputed for election duty for nearly two weeks, as per the orders of the district administration, a copy of which is enclosed. Because of this heavy workload, a few files could not be disposed of within the prescribed time. However, I have now cleared all the pending files, and a list showing the present status of each file is attached for your perusal. I assure you that I have always performed my duties sincerely and that the delay was not due to any negligence on my part. I humbly request you to kindly consider the circumstances and drop the proceedings. I shall be extra careful in future. Yours faithfully.