This writ petition has been filed challenging the order of suspension dated 6.6.2006 passed by the respondent.

2. The brief facts necessary for disposal of the writ petition are that the petitioner was appointed as part-time Clerk in the Kalloorani Panchayat, initially on temporary basis and subsequently made permanent. He is working in the said Panchayat for the past 16 years. According to the petitioner, one K. Devaraj Muthiah preferred a complaint to the Tirunelveli Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Cell against him stating that the petitioner demanded bribe for passing some bills due to him on account of certain works done by him to the Panchayat. The said complaint was registered under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1998. Pursuant to the said complaint, petitioner was arrested on 5.6.2006 at about 7.30 p.m., and he was released on bail at 10.45 p.m., after executing surety bond. In view of the petitioner’s involvement in the criminal case, petitioner was placed under suspension by the impugned order dated 6.6.2006, which is challenged in this writ petition.

3. The President of the Panchayat/respondent herein filed a counter affidavit contending that he is not aw