Mohd.Yunus Khan vs State Of U.P.& Ors

The Supreme Court held that the disciplinary proceedings against the appellant were flawed due to the inquiry officer being subordinate to the authority that initiated the proceedings, violating principles of natural justice. The Court emphasized that the disciplinary authority must be impartial and not involved in the inquiry process, as mandated by Rule 14(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Police Officers of the Subordinate Ranks (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1991. Consequently, the Court set aside the dismissal order and reinstated the appellant with all consequential benefits.