Main procedures for domestic inquiries:

(1) Charge-sheet:

If a prima facie case has been established and the offence is quite serious, a charge-sheet may be prepared on the basis of the allegations made. It should be in writing, detailing the allegations of misconduct. It should also indicate the time within which the workmen charge-sheeted should submit his explanation.

(2) Suspension

Where, in the interest of discipline, the shutting out of the charge-sheeted workman is necessary, the employee should be suspended. He is to get wages for the period of suspension if so provided in the standing orders.

(3) Service of charge-sheet

If the workman is present, charge- sheet should be handed over to him in the presence of witness after explaining the contents of it in a language known to him.

If the delinquent workman is absent or refuses to accept the charge-sheet, it should be sent to his last address under registered post with acknowledgement due. If he refuses to accept it or if it comes back undelivered otherwise, the charge- sheet has to be published in a local newspaper with wide circulation.

(4) Explanation

The explanation given by the worker within the given time has to be considered

(5) Notice of enquiry

If the explanation is found unsatisfactory, a notice giving the time, place and date of the enquiry together with the name of the enquiry officer has to be served on the worker.

The enquiry officer must not be the one who has issued the charge-sheet because it is a principle of natural justice that a person is disqualified to act as a judge if he is-a party to the dispute.

(6) Enquiry

At the appointed time, on the appointed date and place the enquiry will commence by the enquiry officer in the presence of charge-sheeted workman.

At the commencement of the enquiry the enquiry officer should explain the charge-sheet to the worker. If the charge-sheeted workman pleads innocence, the enquiry should be preceded. If he pleads guilty in writing, the enquiry need not be preceded.

(7) Fact-findings

On completion of the enquiry, the enquiry officer is required to submit his findings to the authority authorized to take disciplinary action. He should state in his report the charges as well as the explanations given to them. The enquiry officer should not recommend any punishment in his findings.

(8) Decision

The higher management, such as works manager or director, for taking disciplinary action shall consider the findings and if he accepts the findings of guilt, he should inflict appropriate punishment in accordance with the standing orders.

(9) Service of the order

Any order of punishment should be served on the charge-sheeted workman and this completes the procedure for domestic enquiry.