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IN THE HIGH COURT OF ORISSA AT CUTTACK
BIRAJA PRASANNA SATAPATHY
Udesh Kumar – Appellant
Versus
Union of India – Respondent
| Table of Content |
|---|
| 1. challenge to disciplinary authority's punishment orders. (Para 3 , 4) |
| 2. counterarguments by the opposition regarding due process. (Para 5) |
| 3. court's assessment and decision to remit punishment issues. (Para 6) |
ORDER :
Biraja Prasanna Satapathy, J.
1. This matter is taken up through Hybrid Arrangement (Virtual/Physical) Mode.
2. Heard learned counsel for the parties.
3. The present Writ Petition has been filed inter alia challenging the order of punishment passed by the Disciplinary Authority-Opp. Party No.3 vide order dated 14.07.2022 under Annexure-3, further confirmed by the Appellate Authority-Opp. Party No.4 on 01.10.2022 under Annexure-5, and order dated 24.03.2023 passed by the Revisional Authority-Opp. Party No.5 under Annexure-7.
4. It is contended that petitioner while working as a Constable in CISF Unit, NALCO Damanjodi, a proceeding was initiated against him vide Memorandum dated 11/12.02.2022 under Annexure-1 with the following charges:-
Article-I
“That on 03.02.2022 at about 1337 hrs No. 140504110 Const/GD Udesh Kumar of Mines Coy, CISF Unit NALCO Damanjodi snatched mobile phone from No. 942296901, HC/GD R.N.S. Gujar (CHM) and thereafter by weaving a FARSA l
Disciplinary punishment must be proportionate to established charges; unproven allegations should impact final penalties.
The court held that a disciplinary authority must reconsider the punishment imposed when a charge is not proven, ensuring adherence to principles of natural justice.
The absence of a Presenting Officer does not vitiate disciplinary proceedings if conducted fairly, and misconduct is defined as conduct inconsistent with the faithful discharge of duty.
Disciplinary punishment must be proportionate to the misconduct; excessive penalties are subject to modification by the court.
Failure to issue a second show-cause notice as required by Rule 15(10)(i)(b) invalidates the disciplinary punishment, emphasizing adherence to procedural fairness.
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