DHARAMPAL ARORA vs PUNJAB STATE ELECTRICITY BOARD

The Supreme Court held that the principles of natural justice were violated in the disciplinary proceedings against the appellant, as he was not provided with a copy of the inquiry report or a show cause notice prior to the imposition of a minor punishment under Section 4 of the Punjab State Electricity Board Service Regulations. The Court emphasized that even in cases of minor penalties, the requirement of a fair hearing must be adhered to. Consequently, the Court set aside the orders of the lower courts and directed that the appellant be reinstated with full pay and allowances for the disputed period.