MOHD.YUNUS KHAN vs STATE OF U.P..

The Supreme Court held that the disciplinary proceedings against the appellant were vitiated due to the inquiry officer being subordinate to the authority who initiated the proceedings, thus violating the principles of natural justice. The Court emphasized that such a course of action is impermissible under Rule 14(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Police Officers of the Subordinate Ranks (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1991. Consequently, the dismissal order was set aside, and the appellant was reinstated with all consequential benefits.