S.P. Malhotra vs P.N.B. & Ors

The Supreme Court held that the Disciplinary Authority must provide reasons for disagreement with the Enquiry Officer's findings and communicate them to the delinquent, allowing for a response before imposing punishment, as mandated by Regulation 17 of the Punjab National Bank Officers/Employees (Discipline and Appeal) Regulations, 1977. The Court found that the High Court's reversal of the Single Judge's decision was incorrect, as the procedural safeguards were not followed, leading to the conclusion that the dismissal was vitiated. The Court reinstated the Single Judge's order, emphasizing the necessity of adherence to due process in disciplinary proceedings.