Swaraj Tractors Division, Punjab vs Raghbir Singh

The Supreme Court held that the termination of the respondent's services was valid as he was absent without leave, and the principles of natural justice were not violated since notices were sent to his wife, who could have participated in the inquiry. The Court found that the respondent did not apply for leave or communicate with the appellant during his detention. The orders of the lower courts were set aside, but the appellant was directed to pay an ex gratia amount of Rs. 3,00,000 to the respondent for his twelve years of service.