K. L. SHINDE vs STATE OF MYSORE

The Supreme Court held that Article 311 of the Constitution mandates that a public servant must be given a reasonable opportunity to defend themselves in departmental inquiries. The Court found that the appellant, a Police Constable, was not afforded such an opportunity as he was not allowed to remain at his station during suspension, and evidence was recorded in his absence. However, the Court upheld the dismissal order, concluding that the Superintendent of Police had sufficient grounds to dismiss the appellant based on the evidence presented, despite the Enquiry Officer's contrary recommendation.