PUNJAB STATE ELECT.BOARD NOW PB.S.P.C.L. vs RAJ KUMAR GOEL

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Punjab and Haryana High Court affirming the trial court's decree in favor of the respondent, Raj Kumar Goel, regarding the interpretation of the punishment imposed under the Punjab State Electricity Board Employees (Punishment & Appeal) Regulations, 1971. The Court clarified that the stoppage of five increments without cumulative effect should not result in the loss of more than five increments, and thus directed the Board to pay the arrears due to the respondent. The Court emphasized the necessity of adhering to the regulations in implementing disciplinary actions, ensuring that the punishment does not lead to unjust financial loss to the employee.