Introduction

The Supreme Court's decision in K. Prabhakar Hegde v. Bank of Baroda is a significant ruling on the principles of natural justice in departmental proceedings. The Court emphasized that employees facing disciplinary action are entitled to a fair hearing, disclosure of all material relied upon by the disciplinary authority, and strict compliance with mandatory procedural safeguards. It also clarified that confidential reports cannot be used to impose or enhance punishment without being disclosed to the employee. This case commentary analyses the facts, legal issues, judicial reasoning, and the judgment's importance for service law, disciplinary inquiries, and administrative fairness in India.