IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT PATNA CWJC No.6112 of 2009 NIRAJ KUMAR SINGH Versus THE UNION OF INDIA & ORS ----------- 2. 21.05.2009 Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and for the Union of India. Learned counsel for the petitioner submits that despite his willingness to participate in the departmental proceedings initiated against him, he was not being allowed to do so and that he had been declared absconder behind his back. Learned counsel for the Union of India submits that it appears from Annexure-3, the charge sheet, that his acts were not conducive to military discipline and also unauthorized absence. Obviously the petitioner is in the knowledge of the charges. He should now file his reply before the Inquiry Officer, when departmental proceedings may be held. If the petitioner appears with a copy of the present order before the Inquiry Officer, the Inquiry Officer is directed to fix the next date in the departmental proceedings in presence of the petitioner. Let the departmental proceedings be held expeditiously and be concluded within a maximum period of three months from the date of receipt and/or production of a copy of this order, provided the petitioner himself cooperates. In absence of any materials or submissions made before this Court of the provision with regard to alleged absconder, this aspect is left open with the Respondents to consider in 2 accordance with law. This writ application stands disposed. AKS/ (Navin Sinha, J.)