The Bombay High Court has upheld the Reserve Bank of India’s decision to compulsorily retire a former employee who remained absent from duty without authorisation for nearly three years.
The court observed that prolonged unauthorised absence from a responsible position in India’s central banking institution was not only a violation of service rules but also harmful to public interest.
The case involved former RBI Senior Assistant Animesh Bakuli, who had challenged the compulsory retirement order and sought restoration of salary, allowances and other service benefits. After examining the records, the High Court declined to interfere with the RBI’s disciplinary decision.
Former RBI Employee Challenged Retirement Order
Animesh Bakuli joined the RBI as an assistant in 2013. After completing his probation, he was confirmed as a permanent employee and was later promoted to Senior Assistant.
During his service, he submitted several requests between 2017 and 2018 seeking a transfer to Kolkata. However, those requests were not approved by the central bank.
In his petition, Bakuli argued that the rejection of his transfer requests, disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the poor health of his parents affected his ability to attend work regularly.
He also claimed that the disciplinary proceedings violated principles of natural justice and that he was not given a fair opportunity to defend himself.
RBI Said Employee Remained Absent Since March 2020
The RBI informed the court that Bakuli remained absent from duty from March 19, 2020, and continued to stay away without authorisation for nearly three years.
According to the central bank, he neither resumed work nor provided a satisfactory explanation for his prolonged absence.
The RBI said several communications were sent to him through email and other available channels. These communications reportedly directed him to report back to duty, submit leave applications or provide medical certificates supporting his absence.
Despite repeated reminders and opportunities, the employee allegedly failed to respond properly or regularise his absence.
Court Finds Grave Misconduct
Court records showed that the RBI made repeated attempts to engage with the employee and asked him to clarify his position.
The bank argued that by remaining absent without permission for such a long period, he had effectively abandoned his responsibilities.
Following departmental proceedings, the RBI issued an order of compulsory retirement on January 31, 2023. The order was communicated to him through all available addresses.
The High Court held that nearly three years of unauthorised absence amounted to grave misconduct under service rules.
Senior Role Required Discipline and Accountability
In its judgment, the High Court noted that a Senior Assistant in the RBI holds a position involving significant responsibility and accountability.
Employees in such roles are expected to maintain regular attendance, discipline and commitment to institutional duties.
The court said prolonged unauthorised absence can adversely affect the functioning of an institution, especially one entrusted with critical public responsibilities.
Given the duration and nature of the misconduct, the court concluded that compulsory retirement was not disproportionate, arbitrary or excessively harsh.
Public Institutions Require Strong Internal Discipline
The ruling highlights the importance of workplace discipline in public institutions.
Organisations handling critical financial, regulatory or administrative responsibilities depend on reliability, attendance and accountability from their employees.
When employees remain absent for long periods without authorisation, it can disrupt operations, weaken institutional efficiency and place additional pressure on internal systems.
Why Internal Controls Matter for Organisations
The case also underlines the need for clear policies, documented communication, attendance monitoring and disciplinary procedures.
For businesses and institutions, strong internal systems help ensure accountability and reduce disputes. Professional auditing services in india can help organisations review internal controls, strengthen compliance processes and maintain transparent operational records.
Shunyatax Global Insight
At Shunyatax Global, we believe accountability is essential for every organisation, whether public or private. Clear documentation, disciplined internal processes and timely compliance reviews help institutions operate with transparency and trust.
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