THE HON’BLE SRI JUSTICE NOOTY RAMAMOHANA RAO WRIT PETITION No. 6974 OF 2011 O R D E R: Heard Smt. W.V.S. Rajeswari, learned Standing Counsel for APSRTC. The petitioner was appointed as a driver on contract basis. After some time, by an order dated 07.01.2008 passed by the Depot Manager, Kadiri Bus Depot, he was terminated from service on the ground of absenteeism. Subsequently, against the order of termination, he preferred an appeal on 12.10.2010 to the Regional Manager, Anantapur, who, through orders dated 17.02.2011 rejected the same as time barred. The same is challenged in this Writ Petition. Though the engagement of the writ petitioner was on contract basis, the Corporation was under obligation to follow the procedure prescribed under the Regulations for disciplinary matters. Neither any show cause notice was issued nor any domestic enquiry was directed. The order suffers from the vice of violation of principles of natural justice, apart from being violative of prescribed procedure. Hence, the Writ Petition is allowed, and the impugned order is set aside. The respondents shall reinstate the petitioner into service within 30 days from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. The petitioner, however, shall not be entitled to any back wages, or other monetary benefits, on account of this order, and it shall be open to the respondents to initiate disciplinary action, in accordance with law, if they so intend. No costs. --------------------------------- Nooty Ramamohana Rao, J 21st March 2011 ksld