In Brief
Amarendra Kumar Pandey, an Assam Rifles soldier, was discharged from service in 2004 based on four Red Ink entries (disciplinary records) without substantive reasons being recorded in the discharge order. The High Court's Division Bench upheld the discharge, ruling that no reasons need be recorded. The Supreme Court held that discharge is not automatic upon four Red Ink entries; the authority must apply its mind to relevant circumstances, consider the nature and gravity of offences, and demonstrate rational exercise of discretion through a reasoned order. The Court set aside the discharge, treating Pandey as in service until qualifying for pension, which he would have completed in six months—substantial justice without back wages.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.