THE STATE OF PUNJAB vs KHARAITI LAL.

The Supreme Court interpreted Section 7(3) of the East Punjab Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1947, clarifying that a complaint does not need explicit authorization from the State Government, but can be filed by an authorized person. It distinguished between neglect of duty under Section 29 of the Police Act, 1861, and absence from work under Section 5(b) of the Essential Services Act. The Court held that while the respondent's absence may constitute neglect, it did not amount to abandonment of employment, leading to the acquittal of the constable.