THE CALCUTTA JUTE MFG. CO. LTD. vs CALCUTTA JUTE MFG. WORKERS' UNION

The Supreme Court held that under Standing Order 14 (c) (i), insubordination can be established even if the authority is not a direct superior, as defiance of any person in authority constitutes insubordination. The Court found that the abusive and threatening behavior of the workmen towards a supervisor, even though he was not their direct superior, amounted to misconduct. The dismissal of the workmen was upheld as justified, despite incidental matters arising during the inquiry, as they had the opportunity to meet the charges against them.