1. The petitioner who was employed by the respondent Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, as an Inspector of Assessment, has come forward to file the present writ petition challenging a charge memo, dated 30.1.2009.

2. By the charge memo, the petitioner was accused of not taking enough care while taking cash collection to the bank deposit and not arranging proper security. It was found out that while he was working as an Inspector of Assessment at Chembakkam in Doraipakkam office of the Executive Engineer, Chennai Electricity Distribution Circle (South), a cash amount of Rs.4,97,271/- and cheque value of Rs.38,421/- were taken to the Indian Bank, Rajakeelpakkam Branch for deposit. But the money was taken away by some miscreants. Hence it was alleged that the petitioner who was responsible for the loss, had committed misconduct in terms of the Standing Order 19(i) applicable to the clerical cadre of the respondent Board and that he had not taken proper care and caution in arranging appropriate security.

3. The contention of the petitioner was that he had already reached the age of superannuation on 31.1.2009 and was allowed to retire, but no order was passed retaining him in serv