STATE OF KERALA vs SNEHA CHERIYAN

The Supreme Court ruled that the provisions of the Kerala Service Rules, specifically Rule 51, must be interpreted in a manner that ensures fair treatment of employees, emphasizing the need for adherence to principles of natural justice. The Court held that any disciplinary action taken without following due process is invalid, thereby reinforcing the importance of procedural safeguards in service matters. Consequently, the appeals by the State of Kerala were dismissed, upholding the decisions of the lower courts that favored the respondents.