(1) The official empowered to issue order of departmental punishment must, prior to issuing an order of punishment to any civil employee, serve on him/her a
notice, explaining the reason for taking such action and give an opportunity to defend him/herself within a reasonable time limit. In giving such opportunity, the charge against him/her must be clearly
indicated and the facts and grounds on which each charge is based must be specified. In such case, the concerned employee must also submit his/her defense within the time limit; and the concerned official must seriously consider the defense so submitted.
(2) The official empowered to issue order of departmental punishment may, if he/she thinks it necessary, conduct an
investigation either by him/herself or through any other officer. The officer conducting the investigation must follow the prescribed  procedures.