UNION OF INDIA vs M.M.SHARMA

The Supreme Court upheld the Delhi High Court's direction for the competent authority to issue a speaking order regarding the dismissal of the respondent under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution of India. The Court emphasized that while national security concerns justified the dismissal without a formal inquiry, the authority must still provide reasons for the penalty imposed. The judgment reinforces the principle that even in matters of national security, procedural fairness requires a reasoned decision when imposing severe penalties such as dismissal from service.