UNION OF INDIA & ANR. vs K.S. SUBRAMANIAN

The Supreme Court held that the Central Civil Service (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, are applicable only when disciplinary proceedings are initiated, and do not mandate such proceedings for termination of service. The Court clarified that mere termination of a permanent government servant's service does not equate to punishment unless there is a finding of wrongdoing or incompetence. It was determined that the respondent's termination was lawful as it did not involve disciplinary action, and the provisions of Article 311 of the Constitution do not apply to him as he held a post connected with defense.