Patna High Court Quashes Sub Registrar's Dismissal, Reiterates Article 311 Protections Against Arbitrary Removal

The Patna High Court quashed the dismissal of Ram Pravesh Chauhan, a Sub Registrar, citing inadequate evidence in the disciplinary proceedings and reiterating Article 311 protections against arbitrary removal. Chauhan was accused of accepting a bribe during a sting operation, leading to his suspension and termination. He contested the decision, arguing procedural defects and lack of direct evidence linking him to the bribe. The court found that the dismissal order, signed by the Joint Secretary instead of the Principal Secretary, violated Article 311(1), which mandates that only the appointing authority or a higher one can dismiss a civil servant. The court ordered Chauhan’s reinstatement with all associated benefits, emphasizing the need for proper procedural adherence in disciplinary actions.