The Delhi High Court clarified that if the Directorate of Education does not approve the suspension of an employee of a recognized private school within 15 days, the suspension automatically ends. A Full Bench addressed conflicting judgments on the interpretation of a section of the Delhi School Education Act, 1973.
The court determined that a suspension, initially ordered without prior approval in cases of alleged gross misconduct, cannot be revived if the Director approves it after the 15-day period. It emphasized that once the suspension lapses, the management must issue a fresh suspension order if deemed necessary.
The High Court held that any approval granted after the 15-day period has expired does not comply with the statutory requirement. It stated that failure to allow the employee to resume duties after the suspension lapses cannot justify its continuation. The matter has been scheduled for further proceedings on July 31.
