Suspension challenge and disciplinary enquiry procedure kept under review, with interim operation stayed and enquiry allowed to continue

Suspension was challenged on the ground that the disciplinary enquiry had been conducted by a five-member committee and that the matter did not justify major punishment under the service rules. The HC did not finally determine the merits; instead, it directed further consideration, called for a counter affidavit, kept operation of the order dated 7.1.2022 in abeyance until the next date of listing, and allowed the enquiry to continue.

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Issues: Whether suspension could be sustained where the enquiry had been conducted by a five-member committee and the petitioner contended that the matter did not warrant a major punishment under the disciplinary rules.

Outcome: The matter was directed to be considered further, counter affidavit was called, and the operation of the order dated 7.1.2022 was kept in abeyance till the next date of listing while the enquiry was permitted to continue.

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