JUDGMENT 1. The petitioners were granted proficiency step up with effect from 1.1.1986. However, the same was withdrawn vide office order dated 29.4.2009. The petitioners have not been heard before the issuance of letter dated 29.4.2009. The petitioners have suffered civil and evil consequences. It is settled law by now that any order which has civil and evil consequences must be passed in conformity with the principles of natural justice. 2. Their Lordships of the Hon’ble Supreme Court have held in Rajesh Kumar and others versus Dy. CIT and others, 2007 (2) SCC 181 that when by reason of an action on the part of a statutory authority, civil or evil consequences ensue, principles of natural justice are required to be followed. Their Lordships have held as under: “26. Effect of civil consequences arising out of determination of lis under a statute is stated in State of Orissa v. Dr. (Miss) Binapani Dei and Ors. (1967 (2) SCR 625). It is an authority for the proposition when by reason of an action on the part of a statutory authority, civil or evil consequences ensue, principles of natural justice are required to be followed. In such an event, although no express provision is laid down in this behalf compliance of principles of natural justice would be implicit. In case of denial of principles of natural justice in a statute, the same may also be held ultra vires Article 14 of the Constitution.” 3. Accordingly, the writ petitions are allowed. The impugned order Annexure P-3 dated 29.4.2009 (in both the petitions) is quashed and set aside. However, liberty is reserved to the respondents to proceed with the matter in accordance with law. No costs.