T. Nk. Singh, J.

1. Heard Mr. H.S. Paonam, learned senior counsel assisted by Mr. S. Gunabanta, learned counsel appearing for the petitioner and also Mr. N. Ibotombi. learned senior Advocate assisted by Ms Savitri, learned counsel appearing for the respondents. Petitioner, who is now retired Bank Officer, is assailing the punishment of reduction of Middle Management Grade Scale-II to Junior Management Grade Scale-I with his basic pay being fixed at Rs. 9,820/- vide the impugned order/letter No. PD/ DIR/496/1239/2002, February 20th, 2002 issued by the Assistant Chief Manager (D.& I.R.) and also the entire departmental proceedings.

Factual Background:

2. The petitioner was serving as Manager of United Bank of India (for short UBI) Paona Bazar Branch from 16.11.1989 to 08.6.1992. While the petitioner was functioning as Lead Bank Officer with the responsibilities of looking after Districts of Bishenpur and Churachandpur, he was served with the letter of the Assistant General Manager Corporate A/Cs being No. PD/DIR/372/97 dated 31.12.1996/ 2011/1997 that enquiry against the petitioner under Regulation 6 of the UBI Officers Employees' (Discipline and Appeal) Regulation, 1976 for the