Prithipal Singh vs State Of Punjab & Ors

The Supreme Court addressed the application of the 2nd proviso to Clause (2) of Article 311 of the Constitution of India, determining that the dismissal of the appellant, an Assistant Sub-Inspector of Police, was invalid as the allegations of misconduct were not substantiated. The Court held that once a departmental inquiry is initiated, it must be completed unless valid reasons are provided for its dispensation. The Court ultimately upheld the decision of the appellate authority that reinstated the appellant, emphasizing the necessity of due process in disciplinary proceedings.