P&H: Quashes order of Dismissal from service For Breach Of Natural Justice; Orders Full Benefits With 6% Interest

Service -- Departmental inquiry — Violation of principles of natural justice — Denial of adjournment and opportunity to lead defence evidence — Inquiry in substance stood concluded  despite specific request for adjournment, witnesses were cross-examined by Inquiry Officer himself and no meaningful opportunity was thereafter afforded to adduce defence evidence, vitiating the inquiry and rendering the consequential dismissal unsustainable. (Para 7] Service — Disciplinary proceedings — Quasi-judicial character and duty of fairness — Inquiry Officer must act fairly and