Suspension or removal

(1) The Area Commandant may, by order in writing, suspend or remove from the Home Guards any member of the Home Guards under his control,-(a) who on being called out by an order under section 6, without reasonable cause neglects or refuses-(i) to obey such order, or (ii) to exercise the powers and discharge the duties as a member of the Home Guards, or (iii) to obey any lawful order or direction given to him as a member of the Home Guards; or (b) who is guilty of any breach of discipline or of any misconduct. The Area Commandant may also dismiss any member of the Home Guards appointed to a post under his control and may also dismiss any member of the Home Guards on the ground of conduct which has led to his conviction on a criminal charge. (2) No order under sub-section (1) shall be passed unless the member of the Home Guards affected by such order is given an opportunity to be heard in his defence: Provided that this sub-section shall not apply where a member of the Home Guards is dismissed on the ground of conduct which has led to his conviction on a criminal charge. (3) The suspension or removal of a member of the Home Guards under this section shall be in addition to any penalty to which such member may be liable under section 14 or any other law for the time being in force.