RANJIT KUMAR MAJUMDAR vs U O I

The Supreme Court referred the matter to a larger bench to resolve the conflict regarding the applicability of the Central Civil Services (Classification Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, in cases involving civilian employees in defense services. The petitioner challenged his suspension under Rule 10(1) of the 1965 Rules, arguing it was without jurisdiction, citing Union of India v. K.S. Subramanian. The Tribunal upheld the suspension, stating that the 1965 Rules apply to all government servants, including those in defense, and that the suspension was valid despite being linked to a criminal prosecution. The Court's holding emphasizes the need for clarity on the powers of suspension in the absence of Article 311(2) protections.