V.P. AHUJA vs STATE OF PUNJAB

The Supreme Court held that the termination of the appellant's services during the probation period was stigmatic and punitive, despite the management's right to terminate without notice as per the appointment terms. The Court emphasized that the grounds for termination, citing failure in performance, rendered the order not merely administrative but also punitive, thus requiring adherence to principles of natural justice. The Court set aside the High Court's dismissal of the writ petition and ruled in favor of the appellant, reinstating him.