Time Limit of Proceedings

There is a G.O. “Delay in the conduct of disciplinary proceedings – Time Schedule for different stages” vide Finance Department Memo No. 3772-F, dated 04.11.1967 which provide:

“The following time-schedule should be observed as closely as possible in dealing with disciplinary cases-
(a) The charge or charges should be handed over to the charged officer within seven days from the date of taking the decision to start formal proceedings. A decision should also be taken within that period whether the officer should be placed under suspension pending enquiry.
(b) The delinquent’s written statement of defence shall ordinarily be required to be submitted within a fortnight and In no case should the period of more than one month be allowed.
(c) The enquiry including the oral examination of the witness should be completed wilhln a month of the submission of the written statement. In case of outstatlon witness the time may be extended to three months.
(d) The report of the Inquiring officer where he is not himself the punishing authority should be submitted within seven days of the closing of the enquiry to the punishing authority or to the Vigilance Commission, if It has so advised.
(e) The punishing authority should make his provisional decision within a fortnight of the date of receipt of the report of enquiry or receipt of the advise of the Vigilance Commission on the report.
(f) The delinquent should be asked to show cause against the proposed punishment of dismissal, removal or reduction In rank, within ten days of the provisional decision.
(g) Where a reference to Public Service Commission Is necessary a report should be obtained within six weeks from the date of receipt of the final explanation of the delinquent.
(h) Final orders should be passed within a fortnight from the date of receipt of the final explanation of the Government servant or the advice of the Commission as the case may be.”

Ref reading: http://indiankanoon.org/doc/1059454/