K.GOPAUL vs UNION OF INDIA AND OTHERS

The Supreme Court held that the transfer of the appellant from the post of Inspector General of Registration (I.G.R.) to Accommodation Controller constituted a reduction in rank without adhering to the procedural safeguards under Article 311 of the Constitution of India. The Court found that the I.G.R. was a head of department, while the Accommodation Controller was not, thus establishing a clear distinction in rank. The Court upheld the appellant's claim that his rights were compromised by the transfer, leading to the conclusion that the transfer was invalid.