Mahinder Dutt Sharma vs U.O.I & Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal of a police constable for unauthorized absence under the Delhi Police (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1980, emphasizing the importance of discipline in the police force. The Court found that the appellant's appeal against the dismissal was time-barred as it was filed more than five years after the punishment order, which was served on him on 24.5.1996. The Court held that the reasons provided for the delay in filing the appeal were insufficient to warrant condonation, affirming the decisions of the disciplinary authority and the Central Administrative Tribunal.