In Brief
The Supreme Court allowed an appeal by a workmen's union against a High Court decision that dismissed a writ petition seeking enforcement of a modified Industrial Tribunal Award. The Award directed the reinstatement of 14 workmen at a coal colliery, but the High Court had modified it to grant only preference upon future recruitment with age and qualification relaxation. After 27 years with no recruitment occurring and the workmen nearing retirement, the Court found reinstatement impractical. Awarding compensation instead, the Court directed the employer to pay Rs. 2 lakhs to each workman in full and final settlement of all claims, treating this as complete justice where practical reinstatement relief had become impossible.
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