In Brief
M.L. Singla, a bank cashier, was dismissed for consuming liquor on duty and causing a cash shortage of Rs. 35,000. The Labour Court set aside the dismissal and awarded 50% back wages, but the High Court reversed this. The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal, holding that the domestic enquiry was legal and proper, with full opportunity given to the employee. The Court found that the Labour Court erred by not first examining enquiry legality as a preliminary issue and by awarding back wages without proof of gainful employment elsewhere. Both charges being serious, dismissal was proportionate punishment and legally justified.
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