DHIREN DAS Vs. STATE OF ASSAM

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Mr. M.K. Choudhury, the learned senior counsel representing the petitioner. The Assam State Electricity Board (ASEB) [now the Assam Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. (APDCL)] and their officers (respondent Nos.2-5) are represented by the learned counsel Mr. S. Chakraborty. The respondent No.1 is represented by Mr. S.S. Roy, the learned Govt. Advocate.

(2.) The petitioner, while serving as the cashier in the Gohpur Electrical Sub-Division in Sonitpur District, was placed under suspension on 28.6.2007 (Annexure-A). The suspension was preceded by a special internal audit of the Gohpur Electrical Sub-Division, for the period 1.4.1999-31.5.2006, which found shortfall of around Rs.36 lakhs, in the office accounts.

(3.) This led to disciplinary proceeding against the cashier and four other officers, under Regulation 10 of the Assam State Electricity Board (General Service) Regulation, 1960 (hereinafter referred to as 'the ASEB Regulation'), where the following charges were levelled against the employees:-