Section 20A. Adjudication of penalties.

1[20A. Adjudication of penalties.--- For the purpose of adjudicating penalties under section 20, the Central Government shall, appoint an officer at least one rank higher than the competent authority as an adjudicating officer for holding an inquiry and imposing penalties in such manner as may be prescribed: Provided that the Central Government may appoint as many adjudicating officers as may be required: Provided further that no such penalty shall be imposed without giving the person concerned a reasonable opportunity of being heard.]