Government ya public sector jobs me departmental enquiry ek internal courtroom jaisa hota hai, jahan employee ke alleged misconduct ko investigate kiya jata hai. Outcome suspension, demotion, or dismissal tak ho sakta hai, isliye natural justice ke principles yahan bohot important hain.
Do core pillars:
- Audi alteram partem – employee ko charges, evidence, aur defence ka full chance mile,
- Nemo judex in causa sua – enquiry officer impartial ho, conflict of interest na ho.
Practical requirements:
- Written charge-sheet with specific allegations,
- Reasonable time to reply,
- Right to cross-examine witnesses, present own evidence,
- Reasoned enquiry report, jisme findings clearly explained hon.
Minor technical irregularities har baar enquiry ko void nahi banati, lekin serious violations – like no notice, biased officer, pre-decided mind – courts ko interfere karne pe majboor kar sakte hain.
Employees ko har letter, minute, ya hearing ko lightly nahi lena chahiye. Timely written replies, documentary proof, aur witness support later judicial review me bhi kaam aate hain.