https://www.taxtmi.com/highlights?id=102810 Rule 14(24) of the CCS (CCA) Rules does not automatically invalidate disciplinary proceedings merely because an inquiry exceeds the prescribed period without a written extension. Its time prescription is directory because it specifies no abatement or invalidation consequence; intervention requires inordinate unexplained delay, demonstrable prejudice, mala fides, or oppressive proceedings. Deferred promotion during pending proceedings alone is not legal prejudice. Approval of a charge memorandum is valid where the competent disciplinary authority considered the proposal, vigilance advice and relevant records; unsupported allegations of mechanical approval are insufficient. Preliminary fact-finding during deputation is permissible, and judicial review at the charge stage remains limited to jurisdictional error, patent illegality, mala fides, or fundamental statutory violation. en-us Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:20:11 +0530 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:20:12 +0530 TaxTMI RSS Generator https://www.taxtmi.com/highlights?id=102810 Rule 14(24) of the CCS (CCA) Rules does not automatically invalidate disciplinary proceedings merely because an inquiry exceeds the prescribed period without a written extension. Its time prescription is directory because it specifies no abatement or invalidation consequence; intervention requires inordinate unexplained delay, demonstrable prejudice, mala fides, or oppressive proceedings. Deferred promotion during pending proceedings alone is not legal prejudice. Approval of a charge memorandum is valid where the competent disciplinary authority considered the proposal, vigilance advice and relevant records; unsupported allegations of mechanical approval are insufficient. Preliminary fact-finding during deputation is permissible, and judicial review at the charge stage remains limited to jurisdictional error, patent illegality, mala fides, or fundamental statutory violation. Highlights Indian Laws Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:20:11 +0530 https://www.taxtmi.com/highlights?id=102810