As per case facts, an employee faced disciplinary proceedings for alleged financial irregularities. His request for legal representation was initially rejected, and an appeal was dismissed. Following a High Court ... direction for reconsideration, his renewed request for a lawyer was again declined, and his subsequent appeal was also rejected. The employee contended that the charges were complex, union representatives refused to assist, and his medical condition made self-representation difficult, thus denying him a fair hearing. The question arose whether the denial of legal representation, under the governing settlement allowing it with Bank's permission, violated principles of natural justice given the circumstances. Finally, the High Court set aside the rejection orders, remanding the matter to the Disciplinary Authority to re-examine the request for legal representation on its merits, emphasizing that the Bank's discretion must be exercised reasonably and not mechanically.