1. Based upon the challenge in this writ petition filed under Art.226 of the Constitution of India, a substantial question that arises for consideration pertaining to the principles of natural justice is that, in a disciplinary proceedings when enquiry officer and disciplinary authority are different persons, whether the enquiry officer is justified in serving a charge sheet without furnishing a statement of allegations along with it to the delinquent officer? and whether the failure of it amounts to violation of principles of natural justice?

2. This petition has been filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India by the petitioner to quash the disciplinary proceedings initiated against him and the punishment imposed thereunder and also seeking a direction to reinstate him at Karakulam branch of Indian Bank with all consequential benefits. The petitioner joined in the Indian Bank on 1.3.1982 as a sub staff, who was later promoted as Clerk on 19.8.1995 and was working at Karakulam Branch. While working in that branch, disciplinary action was taken against the petitioner, accordingly, he was suspended from service on 15.7.2008 and after inquiry, punishment was impos