Understanding Speaking Orders in Disciplinary Proceedings
I think it would be appropriate to first understand what a "speaking order" actually means in the context of disposing of disciplinary proceedings with punishment. A speaking order always speaks for itself. In other words, a speaking order is one that goes beyond the formal and sets out within itself the findings or the reasons for that order.
In the realm of employment, a punishment, whether minor or major, irrespective of its nature, inflicted upon an employee always has a stigma attached to it. The question of penalty or punishment is the finality of the findings of the Disciplinary Authority, depending on the gravity of the misconduct alleged and its repercussions on the organization.
When the charges of misconduct are refuted, the order awarding punishment should be a speaking order, irrespective of the nature of the penalty, because the Disciplinary Authority is vested with discretion. Discretion is not a matter of personal whims and fancies. Therefore, it requires a logical discussion for the final conclusion.
Unequivocal admission of the charges of minor misconduct may be a different situation requiring a brief order of proportionate punishment. However, it does not mean that the order can merely be a cryptic one in the field of Administrative Justice. So, in my opinion, every order of punishment should be a speaking one.