THE HON’BLE MR JUSTICE L. NARASIMHA REDDY Writ Petition No.24964 of 2010 ORDER: The petitioner is working as Guard-cum-Peon in the Warehouse at Metpally, owned by the A.P. State Ware Housing Corporation. On 18.08.2010, theft of turmeric stored by the farmers in the warehouse, has taken place. It is stated that the petitioner was on duty on that day. To enquire into the matter, the General Manager of the Corporation visited Metpally and stayed on 23rd and 24th August, 2010. However, the petitioner did not turn up, in spite of the efforts made by office, to contact him. On that basis, the Managing Director of the Corporation, the 2nd respondent herein, issued proceedings, dated 04.09.2010, placing the petitioner under suspension. The same is challenged in this Writ Petition. Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and learned Standing Counsel for the respondents. The petitioner pleads that, his inability to attend the duties on 23rd and 24th of August, 2010 was, on account of ill-health. Even if that is true, it cannot be said that there is absolutely no basis for the respondents to place the petitioner under suspension. When a higher official, like the General Manager of the Corporation visited a place like Metpally to enquire into the allegation of theft, being the guard, the petitioner was required to be present at least to depose in the enquiry, though not for discharging the duties. These, however, are the matters, which need to be taken into account in the departmental proceedings, which may ensue. Hence, the Writ Petition is dismissed. It is, however, directed that the respondents shall conclude the disciplinary proceedings, within a period of three months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. In case, no such proceedings are initiated, or concluded by that time, the petitioner shall be reinstated. There shall be no order as costs. _____________________ L. NARASIMHA REDDY, J. Dt.08.10.2010. GJ