Srinagar, July 26,: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has overturned the retrospective dismissal of senior J&K Bank officer Naseer Ahmad Sheikh, calling the bank’s disciplinary action arbitrary and procedurally flawed.
Justice Javed Iqbal Wani ruled that Sheikh, who retired in June 2021 after 34 years of service, was denied a fair hearing and due process. The court found that he was not allowed to cross-examine witnesses or present crucial evidence in his defence, especially regarding the sanctioning of temporary overdrafts under alleged verbal orders from superiors.
Calling the inquiry “ritualistic” and lacking impartiality, the court directed the bank to release all withheld pensionary benefits within eight weeks, or face 8% annual interest until paid. It found no evidence of personal gain or fraud.
The judgment is seen as a strong reminder to institutions on the need for fair and transparent disciplinary processes. [KNT]
