In Brief
A bank dismissed an employee without conducting a formal disciplinary inquiry, despite statutory regulations requiring such inquiries to be held with due observance of natural justice. The employee received charge sheets and submitted replies, but no actual inquiry was held where he could cross-examine witnesses or present evidence in person. The High Court quashed the dismissal. The Supreme Court upheld this decision, holding that dismissal without a proper inquiry violates statutory procedure and natural justice principles. The Court reiterated that disciplinary proceedings must include formal inquiry, opportunity to cross-examine witnesses, and due process safeguards. The appeal was dismissed, and the matter was remitted for a fresh de novo inquiry if the bank chose to proceed."
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