Hemlata Eknath Pise v. Shubham Bahu Uddeshiya Sanstha Waddhamna & Ors., 2026

The appellant, Hemlata Eknath Pise, was dismissed from service following disciplinary proceedings initiated in 2017.

She challenged her dismissal before the School Tribunal, Nagpur, which in August 2019 set aside the termination and ordered her reinstatement with consequential benefits.

The management filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench).

On September 5, 2024, a Single Judge allowed the writ petition, remanding the matter to the Tribunal, primarily questioning whether the Secretary of the management was duly authorized to initiate the disciplinary proceedings.

A review petition filed by the appellant against the High Court’s order was dismissed, leading to an appeal before the Supreme Court.

The appellant contended that the High Court considered only one issue, ignoring other vital issues, including non-adherence to principles of natural justice where she was not allowed to cross-examine witnesses, constituting a denial of meaningful hearing.

The Supreme Court observed that it is incumbent upon courts to decide each issue arising in a matter with reasons rather than confining themselves to a single decisive point.

Courts must provide reasoned decisions for all issues to:

• Ensure clarity and finality

• Protect the rights of litigants

• Aid appellate courts in reviewing the matter effectively

The High Court’s selective focus on the authorization of the Secretary and failure to address non-adherence to natural justice constituted a fundamental flaw.

Consequently, the orders of the High Court were set aside, and the writ petition was remanded for fresh consideration, taking into account:

• Claims and defenses of both parties

• Principles of natural justice

• Justification of the Tribunal’s interference with disciplinary action

• Back wages and retirement benefits, considering appellant’s attainment of superannuation

The Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court was requested to assign the matter to an appropriate roster Bench for disposal preferably within four months.

Parties were also encouraged to explore a mediated settlement.

Reinforces the principle that judicial decisions must be comprehensive and address all issues.

Emphasizes the importance of natural justice in disciplinary proceedings.

Protects the rights of employees in service law cases, ensuring fair opportunity to defend themselves.

Provides a framework for remand with specific directions including consideration of superannuation, back wages, and retirement benefits.

Encourages courts to consider mediated settlements to resolve disputes efficiently.

Highlights the duty of appellate courts to review errors in judicial reasoning and ensure justice is fully delivered.