O.Chinnappa Reddy, J.

1. The petitioner was an employee of the Punjab National Bank, a nationalised bank. On December 6, 1974, the Assistant Regional Manager of the bank issued a notice to the petitioner asking him to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for certain alleged malpractices. It was stated in the notice that certain complaints had been received against the petitioner, that the complaints had been investigated by an inspector and that certain malpractices were noticed. The malpractices were stated to be as follows :

"1. The undernoted borrowers have given written statements to the investigating officer, duly attested by Oath Commissioner, Mohindergarh, that they paid the amount, mentioned against each, to you as bribe for getting loan from the bank :

Rs.

(a) Ram Chander, son of Rachpal Singh

50

(b) Bishan Lal, son of Kabur Chand

150

(c) Sant Lal, son of Jai Dayal

75

(d) Tirath Dass, son of Hari Chand

90

(e) Ratti Ram, son of Kabur Chand

150

Shri Mool Chand, son of Bihari Lal, has given written statement duly attested by Oath Commissioner, Mohindergarh, that you demanded Rs. 100 as bribe for granting loan to him. He was agreeable to pay