K.C. JOSHI vs UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.

The Supreme Court held that the termination of the appellant's service by the Oil and Natural Gas Commission was invalid as it did not comply with the necessary procedural safeguards under Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India. The Court emphasized that the appellant, having completed his probation, was entitled to the protections afforded to regular employees, and the termination was not justified under the Oil and Natural Gas Commission (Conduct, Discipline and Appeal) Regulations, 1964. The Court quashed the High Court's decision and ordered reinstatement with back wages and compensation.