In Brief
Bata India Limited sought to reduce wages of workers who engaged in a 'go slow' strategy (deliberate under-production) despite contractual production targets. The High Court held that while 'go slow' justifies pro-rata wage reduction, the employer must first give workers a fair hearing—mere notice board postings are insufficient. The Supreme Court upheld this, vacated a stay, and ordered payment of the deducted wages within one month. It also clarified that the employer may pursue future action against the 'go slow' tactic, but only by following proper procedural fairness. The appeal was disposed of without cost.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.