STATE OF PUNJAB vs BAKSHISH SINGH

The Supreme Court held that the dismissal of a police constable for absence without leave from November 7, 1986, to March 1, 1988, was arbitrary as the disciplinary authority failed to classify the misconduct as a 'gravest act of misconduct' as required by the relevant service rules. The Court emphasized that while the disciplinary authority has the discretion to impose punishment, it must adhere to the legal standards set forth in the service rules. The dismissal was quashed, and the matter was remanded for reconsideration of the appropriate punishment.