Jab government ya large organisations kisi employee pe misconduct allegation lagati hain, to departmental enquiry ka process follow hota hai. Ye criminal trial nahi, but natural justice ke principles se governed quasi-judicial proceeding hai.
Basic rights:
- Clear charge-sheet jisme accusations specific hon,
- Reasonable time to reply and prepare defence,
- Documents and evidence ka access,
- Witnesses ko cross-examine karne ka chance,
- Apna defence evidence/witnesses present karne ka right,
- Speaking order – jisme enquiry officer reasoned findings likhe.
Ex parte enquiry (employee present nahi hota) extreme situations me ho sakti hai, but tab bhi minimum fairness expected hoti hai. Punishment proportionate hona chahiye – minor lapse pe extreme penalty courts me sustain nahi hoti.
Employee ke liye sabse important cheez: written communication, attendance, objections, representation sab ka record maintain karna. Later jab case tribunal/court me jata hai, wahi papers aapka shield banenge.
