The Regional Manager & Disciplinary ... vs S. Mohammed Gaffar

The Supreme Court held that the disciplinary proceedings against the respondent were valid despite previous criminal acquittals, as the charges were distinct and related to misconduct in service. The Court emphasized that the standard of proof in departmental inquiries is different from that in criminal trials, allowing for disciplinary action based on the findings of the inquiry. The Court ultimately set aside the High Court's dismissal of the writ petition, reinstating the respondent's position and addressing the procedural fairness in the disciplinary process under the Sastry and Desai Awards.