State Bank Of Patiala vs Romesh Chander Kanoji & Ors

The Supreme Court examined the validity of the State Bank of Patiala's Voluntary Retirement Scheme (SBPVRS) and the implications of withdrawal of applications under it. The Court held that once an application for voluntary retirement is submitted, it is irrevocable as per Clause 9(i) of the SBPVRS, and the bank's refusal to allow withdrawal post-application submission was justified. The judgment clarified the scope of discretion exercised by the bank in accepting or rejecting applications under the scheme, affirming the legality of the bank's actions in light of the guidelines set forth by the Indian Bank Association.