The Rajasthan High Court has upheld the removal from service of a constable with the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary who was found to be in a live-in relationship with a married woman, also a constable with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The court rejected the constable’s argument that his actions were justified by Indian mythology.
Background
The constable, Hari Singh, was served with a charge-sheet in September 2007 after he was found to be living with a married woman while serving in the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary. The authorities dismissed him from service for violating the Rajasthan Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1958.
Court’s Decision
Justice Ashok Kumar Gaur, in a single-judge bench, dismissed the constable’s contention that he had the right to lead his personal life as he pleased. The court emphasized that government servants are bound by certain code of conduct rules, even outside of working hours, to maintain high standards in private and public life.
The constable’s argument that Indian mythology justified his conduct was also rejected by the court. It stated that customs and references to Indian mythology could not be used to violate statutory provisions governing conduct rules for government servants.
The court upheld the action against the constable, noting that he was living in an illicit relationship while serving in a disciplined police force and failing to meet his legally wedded wife and children.
Conclusion
The Rajasthan High Court’s decision underscores the importance of government servants adhering to prescribed code of conduct rules and maintaining high standards in their personal and public lives.
