PRINCIPLES OF NATURAL JUSTICE IN DOMESTIC ENQUIRY

Discipline is the foundation of any well-organized establishment, and management must take
prudent measures to maintain it. However, the authority to supervise this discipline should not
be used to arbitrarily dismiss or punish a worker, as this would be extremely unfair to them.
Every establishment is required to maintain Model Standing Orders or Standard Standing
Orders that outline the industry's bylaws, including those dealing with misconduct and
discipline. These domestic investigations, if carried out in accordance with the proper
guidelines, will create a fair environment and allow the worker to explain himself and defend
himself from arbitrary punishment if he is innocent. Furthermore, the law mandates that such
disciplinary proceedings are critical for a worker whose livelihood and dignity are at stake,
because the majority of workers are illiterate and are unaware of their rights and legal
protection. As a result, employers are expected to conduct these investigations in accordance
with the principles of "natural justice."