Losing Control Over Staff Not Misconduct, Allahabad High Court Grants Relief to Jail Superintendent

The Allahabad High Court ruled that “loose control over subordinates” does not amount to misconduct under Civil Service Regulations.

The case involved a Jail Superintendent in Etawah, whose pension was cut by 15% after two prisoners escaped.

The Court said the deduction was unjustified and ordered the amount to be repaid with 9% interest. It referred to the Surendra Pandey v. State of UP case and clarified that only the Governor can act under Rule 351-A of CSR in cases involving serious misconduct or financial loss.

The Court set aside the inquiry findings and protected the officer’s pension.