STATE BANK OF INDIA AND ORS. vs B.R.SAINI

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of the removal of the Respondent from service under the State Bank of India Officers Service Rules, specifically referencing Rule 66(3)(iii) which limits the Disciplinary Authority's power to impose major penalties. The Court upheld the High Court's decision to set aside the removal order, emphasizing that the Appointing Authority must consider the findings of the Inquiring Authority and the Respondent's explanations before imposing penalties. The Court concluded that the removal was not justified based on the procedural lapses identified in the disciplinary process.