Himachal Pradesh High Court Upholds Termination of Anganwari Worker for Defiance and Insubordination

Court dismisses petition challenging dismissal, citing gross misconduct and repeated disobedience of official orders.

In a significant ruling, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has dismissed the writ petition filed by Lalita Devi, an Anganwari Worker from District Mandi, challenging her termination. The court upheld the decision of the state authorities to terminate her services, citing her repeated acts of insubordination and defiance of official orders.

The judgment was delivered by Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua, who emphasized that the petitioner, Lalita Devi, exhibited gross misconduct by refusing to comply with multiple directives to relocate the Anganwari Centre from her residence to the Mahila Mandal Bhawan. Despite several notices and warnings issued by the Child Development Project Officer, Devi persisted in running the center from her brother-in-law's house, even entering into an unauthorized rent agreement.

The court noted that the initial complaint against Devi was filed by the local Gram Panchayat and villagers, who objected to the center being located at an isolated place outside the village. Despite repeated instructions and warnings, including the threat of disciplinary action, Devi continued her defiance.

Justice Dua highlighted that public service demands adherence to the hierarchy and orders from superiors. The court stressed that Devi's actions disrupted the organizational functioning and violated the chain of command, which is vital for maintaining decorum and efficiency in public service.

The ruling underscored that insubordination could not be tolerated, especially when it affects the hierarchy and organizational efficiency. The court found no merit in Devi's arguments that the punishment of termination was too harsh, considering her long service. It stated that the termination was neither disproportionate nor perverse, given the circumstances.

The court's decision serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining discipline and following lawful orders in public service roles. The judgment also reinforces the principle that insubordination and defiance of authority are serious offenses that can lead to severe consequences, including termination.

Bottom Line:

Termination of Anganwari Worker's services upheld for gross insubordination and repeated defiance of orders to relocate Anganwari Centre, affecting public service and organizational hierarchy.

Statutory provision(s): Service Law, Public Service regulations, Clause 7 of the Scheme for appointment of Anganwari Workers.

Lalita Devi v. State of H.P., (Himachal Pradesh) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2813594