Certiorari, writ of-Principles governing issue-Availability of alternative remedy by appeal, if  bar-Departmental enquiry-Violation of principles of natural justice -Presiding  officer himself a witness-Order of dismissal made previous to the Constitution-Revision disallowed after the Constitution such order, if can be quashed Constitution of India, Art. 226

A departmental enquiry against the respondent, a Head Constable, was held by the District Superintendent of Police. During the enquiry the District Superintendent of Police himself became a witness and gave evidence at two stages against the respondent, his statement being recorded by a Deputy Superintendent of Police. The District Superintendent of Police then found the respondent guilty and on April 20, 1948, passed an order of dismissal against him. The respondent went up in appeal to the Deputy Inspector General of Police but the appeal was dismissed on May 7, 1949, The respondent then filed a revision application to the Inspector General of Police which was also dismissed on April 22, 1950. Thereupon, the respondent filed a writ petition under Art. 226 of the Constitution before the High Court praying for the setting aside of the order of dismissal. The High Court held that the rules of natural justice and fair-play had been disregarded and accordingly, quashed the proceedings and set aside the three several orders. The State obtained a certificate of fitness and appealed.