S.P. MALHOTRA vs P.N.B. .

The Supreme Court held that under Regulation 17 of the Punjab National Bank Officers/Employees (Discipline and Appeal) Regulations, 1977, the Disciplinary Authority must provide reasons for disagreeing with the Enquiry Officer's findings and communicate these to the delinquent for a response before imposing punishment. The Court reversed the High Court's decision that had overturned the Single Judge's ruling, thereby reinstating the requirement for procedural fairness in disciplinary proceedings. The appeal was allowed, affirming the necessity of adherence to due process in disciplinary actions.