Supreme Court: Past Misconduct Can Justify Employee’s Dismissal

The Supreme Court ruled that an employee’s past misconduct may be considered to support a disciplinary dismissal, even if not specified in the show cause notice.

The Court overturned the Punjab & Haryana High Court’s order reinstating ex-constable Satpal Singh, who was dismissed for repeated unauthorised absences totalling over 300 days during his service.

The Supreme Court held that reliance on past indiscipline added weight to the dismissal decision without violating natural justice. 

The appeal filed by the State of Punjab was allowed, and the reinstatement order was set aside.

[State of Punjab and Others v. Ex. C. Satpal Singh]