Prior to the order of termination on account of misconduct a proper enquiry must be held: Andhra Pradesh High Court Reiterates

The petitioner was terminated from service due to WhatsApp messages sent by her demanding bribe amounting to INR 2,80,000/- from other staff for regularization of their salaries. It was contended by the Petitioner that no inquiry was conducted prior to her termination which violated principles of natural justice. It was observed by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in W.P. no. 6396/2024 that the allegations of demanding bribe via WhatsApp messages amounts to misconduct and these allegations would stigmatize the petitioner and affect her future prospects, therefore such terminations require adherence to principles of natural justice. It was found by the court that termination order suffered from violation of principles of natural justice by not following a proper inquiry procedure.