AIRPORT AUTHORITY OF INDIA vs SHAMBHU NATH DAS @ S.N. DAS

The Supreme Court addressed the case of Shambhu Nath Das, who was transferred and subsequently failed to report for duty after taking extended leave. The Court held that the Airports Authority of India was justified in dismissing him due to his prolonged absence, but also noted that the learned Single Judge's direction to reinstate him was reasonable. The Court emphasized that the authority must consider the payment of half salary for the intervening period, aligning with principles of fairness and justice under Article 14 of the Constitution. The appeal was dismissed, upholding the reinstatement order with modifications regarding salary considerations.