JUDGMENT :

An order dated 12.11.2013 of imposition of the penalty of withholding of three numbers of increments with cumulative effect in a disciplinary proceeding is the subject matter of challenge in this writ petition. The challenge is based on the procedural irregularities as well as on the merits of the allegations made against the petitioner delinquent.

2. The facts projected in the writ petition are that at the relevant point of time, the petitioner was serving as a Sub-Register in the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup (Metro). Vide an order dated 15.03.2008, the petitioner was placed under suspension. However, the said order of suspension was revoked and the petitioner was reinstated in service on 24.09.2009. In the meantime, the show-cause notice under Section 9 of the Assam (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1964 was served upon the petitioner on 10.09.2018. The principal allegation was of undervaluing 15 numbers of Deeds which were registered by the petitioner as the Registering Officer. It was alleged that there was violation of Section 27A (1) of the Indian Stamp (Assam) (Amendment) Act 2004. Reference has also been made to a communication from the Revenue Departme