MOHAN SINGH MALHI vs STATE OF PUNJAB

The Supreme Court held that under Rule 5.32(c)(i) of the Punjab Civil Service Rules, a government servant can be retired upon reaching the age of 55 with three months' salary and allowances in lieu of notice. The Court clarified that the requirement of notice is not violated if the government provides payment instead, as it serves the same purpose of allowing the employee time to seek alternative employment. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the Full Bench's decision in favor of the State's authority to retire employees under these terms.