BISHAN SINGH & ORS. vs STATE OF PUNJAB & ANR.

The Supreme Court held that the dismissal of the appellants from the police service for leading a peaceful procession to represent grievances was excessive under Rule 16(2) of the Punjab Police Rules. The Court found that while the prohibitory order was violated, the nature of the misconduct did not warrant such a severe penalty. The High Court's order was set aside, and the appellants were reinstated with a lesser penalty of stoppage of one increment without cumulative effect.