State Bank Of India & Ors vs Ramesh Dinkar Punde

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision to set aside the penalty of removal imposed on a bank officer, finding that the inquiry conducted was not in accordance with the principles of natural justice. The Court emphasized that the officer was not given a fair opportunity to defend himself against the charges of misconduct under Rule 32(4) of the State Bank of India (Supervising Staff) Service Rules. Consequently, the Court directed the bank to reinstate the officer with all consequential benefits, including back wages, within three months.