JUDGMENT

The petitioner, who is a Deputy General Manager, had applied for extension of leave which was granted as per Ext.P7 order on the basis of Ext.P6 recommendation. Thereafter the respondents issued Ext.P9 memo directing the petitioner to rejoin duty within 30 days. It was followed by Ext.P11 show cause notice dated 19.02.2018 proposing termination of his service. The petitioner filed this writ petition at that stage pointing out that show cause notice itself was issued even before the time expired for joining duty.

2. The respondents filed counter affidavit stating that the petitioner was initially granted leave for the purpose of taking up another employment. At the same time the petitioner subsequently requested for leave for treatment of his daughter. It is pointed out that there is dearth of staff under the 2nd respondent. As per Ext.R2(e) decision dated 22.1.2008 the Board decided to reconsider its early decision and decided to recall the petitioner giving him one month time notice. As per Ext.R2(f) letter they addressed the Government seeking orders regarding the question of leave granted to the petitioner. As per interim order dated 14.3.2018, the 1st respondent was dire