STATE OF U.P. vs LUXMI KANT SHUKLA

The Supreme Court addressed the procedural fairness in disciplinary proceedings against a member of the Provincial Civil Services under the principles of natural justice. The Court held that the ex-parte enquiry conducted without giving the respondent an opportunity to present his case was violative of natural justice, thus necessitating a fresh enquiry. The Court directed that the enquiry should recommence from the stage of the charge-sheet, ensuring the respondent's right to a fair hearing as mandated by Article 14 of the Constitution.