State Of Punjab vs P.L. Singla

The Supreme Court upheld the disciplinary action taken against the respondent, a doctor in the service of the State of Punjab, for unauthorized absence from duty from 1.6.1992 to 17.10.1997, citing Rule 8.122 and Rule 4.7 of the Punjab Civil Service Rules. The Court found that the explanations provided by the respondent regarding terrorism and a presumed leave application were insufficient to justify the prolonged absence. The Court affirmed the lower courts' decisions that the punishment imposed was valid, thus dismissing the appeal by the State.