Bombay HC orders PNB to compensate former employee ₹5 lakh

The Bombay High Court has ordered Punjab National Bank (PNB) to pay ₹5 lakh to a former employee, Vinayak Balchandra Ghanekar, for an unfair inquiry that led to his dismissal. The court criticized the bank for conducting a "manipulated" investigation against Ghanekar. Ghanekar, who worked at PNB for 37 years, was dismissed on the day of his retirement in June 2018. He claimed the bank rushed the inquiry, giving him no time to prepare a defense. His petition argued that he was denied the principles of natural justice during the process. His appeal to a higher authority was rejected, leading him to seek justice in court. Ghanekar's lawyer pointed out that vital procedural rights were ignored during the inquiry, putting his dismissal in question. The bank's lawyer asserted that Ghanekar received a copy of the inquiry report and had a chance to respond. However, the court found the manner of the inquiry unacceptable. It noted that a lengthy report was prepared hastily, without proper analysis of the evidence. The justices declared the inquiry unfair and reinstated Ghanekar's claim of injustice. The court ordered the bank to pay the compensation within 30 days and suggested conducting a new inquiry with an advocate not linked to the bank. They also recommended finding an amicable solution if desired.