STATE OF MAHARASHTRA vs VIJAY PANDITRAO VISALE

The Supreme Court directed the Caste Scrutiny Committee to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the caste status of Respondent No.1, Vijay Panditrao Visale, to determine if he belongs to the 'Thakur' Scheduled Tribe. The Court emphasized the need for the Committee to consider all documentary and oral evidence, as well as ethnic linkages, and to arrive at a conclusion independently of the High Court's previous judgment. The appeal was disposed of with directions for expeditious handling of the case, allowing the respondent to remain in his position at Dena Bank until a final decision is made.