AMARJIT KAUSHAL Vs. PUNJAB NATIONAL BANK

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Learned counsel for the respondents has filed an affidavit of Shri Satish Kumar Mohla, Senior Manager, Punjab National Bank, Zonal Office, Ludhiana in which it has been stated that in the departmental enquiry against the petitioner, the disciplinary authority has imposed the punishment of reducing his salary by one stage in the time scale.

(2.) Learned counsel for the petitioner states that in view of the fact that the enquiry against the petitioner has culminated in the aforesaid order of punishment, the petitioner's request seeking voluntary retirement submitted on 24th December, 1996 (copy Annexure P-10) may be considered in accordance with law. Learned counsel for the respondent-Bank states that for voluntary retirement three months notice is required to be given and it would take some time to decide the request of the petitioner regarding voluntary retirement.

(3.) In these circumstances, as referred to above, we are of the view that it would be in the interest of justice and fair play if the respondents do not insist the petitioner to join at his new place of posting as in fact that seems to be one of the reasons the petitioner has sought voluntary retirement. However, the petitioner would apply for the leave of the kind due (if no leave is due then leave without pay) and the respondents shall grant that leave till they decide the matter regarding the voluntary retirement which was submitted by the petitioner on 24-12.1996.