KARAM SINGH vs STATE OF PUNJAB

The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal of a police constable who was acquitted of murder (Section 302 IPC) and other serious charges but convicted under Section 323 IPC. The Court emphasized that while the petitioner was released on probation, his prior conviction constituted misconduct justifying dismissal under Rule 16.2.(2) of the Punjab Police Rules. The Court reaffirmed that a conviction, even if followed by probation, remains a disqualification for reinstatement in service, aligning with the principles established in Union of India vs. Bakshi Ram and Shankar Das vs. Union of India.