C. L. SUBRAMANIAM vs COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS, COCHIN

The Supreme Court held that the appellant, a preventive officer, was not afforded a reasonable opportunity to defend himself during disciplinary proceedings, violating Article 311 of the Constitution and Rule 15 of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1957. The Court found that the denial of permission to engage a legal practitioner, especially against a trained prosecutor, constituted a significant procedural flaw. Consequently, the Court allowed the appeal and set aside the order of removal from service.