Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: In a significant ruling, the Jharkhand High Court emphasized that departmental proceedings must adhere to established protocols and ensure that allegations against an accused are substantiated with proper evidence. The court was hearing the petition of former Block Education Extension Officer Jagdish Paswan, who was accused of financial irregularities totaling ₹4.36 lakh and subsequently dismissed from service. Paswan challenged his dismissal, asserting that the departmental inquiry and resulting decision were flawed.
Justice Dr. S.N. Pathak, presiding over the hearing, observed that the departmental report which led to Paswan’s dismissal failed to clearly outline the evidence supporting the allegations of financial misconduct. Paswan’s counsel argued that the inquiry officer declared him guilty without examining any witnesses to support the charges. The counsel noted that mere submission of documents was insufficient to substantiate the allegations, stressing the importance of witness testimony.
The state’s counsel maintained that the inquiry had been conducted in full compliance with legal protocols and that Paswan had been given an opportunity to respond to a show-cause notice. However, the court observed that without examining witnesses, documentation alone was inadequate to confirm the allegations. The ruling underscores the High Court’s insistence on procedural integrity and substantial evidence in departmental disciplinary actions.
