RAM KUMAR Vs. STATE OF HARYANA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) In this appeal by special' leave the appellant, a Bus Conductor of the Haryana Roadways, has challenged the validity of the order of termination of his service on the ground of failure of the punishing authority to give any reason for the impugned order in violation of the principles of natural justice.

(2.) A charge was levelled against the appellant that he did not issue tickets to nine passengers, although he had taken the fare from each of them. A disciplinary proceeding was started against the appellant. The Enquiry Officer, after considering the allegations constituting the charge, the plea of the appellant in defence and the evidence adduced by the parties including the appellant, held that the charge against the appellant was proved. The punishing authority agreed with the findings of the Enquiry Officer and by the impugned order terminated the service of the appellant.

(3.) Aggrieved, the appellant filed a suit challenging the legality of the order of termination. It was contended by the appellant that as no reason was given in the impugned order, it was illegal and invalid being opposed to the principles of natural justice. The Trial Court overruled the said contention and also held that the Civil Court had no jurisdiction to entertain and try the suit. Accordingly, the Trial Court dismissed the suit.