The short question to be considered in this writ petition is whether the composite misconduct alleged against the petitioner could be split up into different charges and separate disciplinary proceedings be initiated against him one after the other exposing him to double jeopardy.

2. Disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the petitioner, who is a Sub Inspector in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), for purchase of properties without the knowledge of the prescribed authorities. The petitioner alleges that he, who hails from an agricultural family, bought agricultural lands with his own savings and other funds mobilised by him by way of pledge/sale of his wife's jewelery and loans from his house friends and relatives.

3. The disciplinary authority found the petitioner guilty of having violated Rule 18(2) of CCS Conduct Rules, which mandates previous knowledge of prescribed authority in the matter of acquisition of property of employees. The petitioner points out that having regard to his unblemished service records he was awarded punishment of barring of one increment for a period of one year without cumulative effect. According to him, the misconduct al