Heard Mr. P.K. Roy, learned counsel appearing for the petitioner. Also heard Mr. P. Bhowmick, learned Standing Counsel, ASEB appearing for the respondents.

2. This is a writ petition challenging the order dated 20-04-2011 issued by the Chairman and Managing Director, APDCL by which it was held that the two charges i.e. Charge No. 2 and Charge No.3 for which inquiry was conducted have been partially proved against the petitioner and a punishment of stoppage of 3 annual increments with cumulative effect was awarded and his suspension period was treated as absence from duty.

3. The brief facts leading to the filing of this writ petition are as follows; The petitioner who was serving as Senior Manager in Meter Testing and Inspection (MTI) Division of Cachar Electrical Circle, APDCL was suspended on 01-04-2010 in contemplation of a departmental inquiry being undertaken. On 17-05-2010, charge sheet along with the statement of imputations were furnished to the petitioner. In the charge sheet and in the allegation of charges, three charges were framed against the petitioner; Charge No.1; Fraud or dishonesty in connection with the business of the Board, Charge No.2; Neglect of duty