STATE OF PUNJAB & ORS. vs DHARAM SINGH

The Supreme Court held that under Rule 16.21 of the Punjab Police Rules, a police officer on suspension is still required to report for duty, and failure to pay subsistence allowance does not justify absence. The Court found that the disciplinary authority's conclusion of wilful absence was justified. However, it modified the punishment from removal to compulsory retirement, allowing the officer to receive pensionary benefits.