GOVT. OF TAMIL NADU vs S. VEL RAJ

The Supreme Court held that the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against the respondent, a Head Constable, was invalid as the charge memo was issued by a Deputy Superintendent of Police, who was not the appointing authority, violating established principles of disciplinary action. The Court found that the Tribunal's conclusion that the evidence of alcohol consumption was inconsistent and not proven beyond reasonable doubt was correct. Consequently, the Court upheld the Tribunal's decision to quash the punishment and reinstate the respondent with all consequential benefits, emphasizing the necessity of lawful authority in disciplinary actions under the Tamil Nadu Police Subordinate Services rules.