The authority next above the competent authority to which an appeal lies against the orders of the competent authority?

The authority next above the competent authority to which an appeal lies against the orders of the competent authority?
(a) Appellate Authority
(b) Competent Authority
(c) Both a & b
(d) None of a & b
✅ Correct option: (a) Appellate Authority
Explanation: Appellate authority is higher than the competent authority and hears appeals against its orders.