Hasnain Massodi, J.:-

1. Petitioner holds rank of Dy. Commandant in Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). He is aggrieved with the order No. D.IX-17/2004-CRC dated 19.08.2013, whereby following punishment has been imposed on him.

"Reduction to a lower stage in the time scale of pay for a period of three years with further directions that that he will not earn increments of pay during the period of such reduction and on the expiry of such period, the reduction will have the effect of postponing the future increments of his pay. Accordingly petitioners' pay is reduced from Rs. 28420/- plus Grade Pay Rs. 6,600/- to Rs. 27,400/- plus Grade Pay Rs. 6,600/- for a period of three years i.e. from 01.09.2013 to 31.08.2016 in the pay band of Rs. 15,600/- 39,100(PB-3)".

1. He questions the order on the grounds set out in the petition. Before going to the grounds of challenge, it would be appropriate to have a closer look at the background facts.

Petitioner while posted as Dy. Commandant - QM/MTO 89 Bn. CRPF, is alleged to have indulged in some omissions and commissions. The complaint of misconduct received against petitioner lead to Departmental Enquiry under Rule 14 CCS (CCA) Rul