K. R. DEB vs COLLECTOR OF CENTRAL EXCISE, SHILLONG

The Supreme Court held that Rule 15 of the Central Civil Services Classification Control and Appeal Rules, 1957, contemplates only one inquiry, and while further evidence may be recorded, there is no provision for multiple inquiries based solely on dissatisfaction with previous reports. The Court found that the multiple inquiries conducted against the appellant, a sub-Inspector of Central Excise, violated Article 311(2) of the Constitution, as they were not in accordance with the prescribed rules and were harassing. Consequently, the Court allowed the appeal and set aside the dismissal of the appellant.