UNION OF INDIA vs RAGHUWAR PAL SINGH

The Supreme Court ruled that the appointment of the respondent as Veterinary Compounder was invalid due to lack of approval from the Competent Authority, thus constituting a nullity rather than a mere irregularity. The Court emphasized that the termination of the respondent's services without providing an opportunity for a hearing violated Article 311(2) of the Constitution of India, which mandates due process in disciplinary actions. Consequently, the Court held that the termination order was quashed, reinstating the respondent's position.