Can the Disciplinary Authority (DA) appoint, by an order, one of his superiors as Presenting Officer (PO) and/or Inquiry Officer (IO)?
The procedure to be followed in disciplinary proceedings is generally laid down in Service Rules and Standing Orders made there under.
Yes, in my opinion, DA may appoint, by an order, one of his superiors as PO and/or IO, provided Service Rules and/or Service Rules do not restrict such appointment. While appointing a senior officer to such assignments, the DA should seek a consent from such senior officer.
Readers may differ with my opinion, however, in such a case they may seek legal opinion.
With best wishes,
Keshav Ram Singhal
