WORKMEN OF BRAHMPUTRA TEA ESTATE, REPRESENTED BY ASSAM CHA vs THE INCOMING MANAGEMENT OF BRAUMPUTRA TEAESTATE & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, specifically Sections 18 and 25, the first respondent was not liable for the claims of the workmen as he was not involved in the termination of their services or the reference of the dispute. The Court emphasized that the first respondent did not acquire the liabilities of the previous management, and thus, the Labour Court's reference became infructuous. Furthermore, the Labour Court was directed to issue notices to the Receiver or Liquidator to adjudicate the claims of the workmen, as it had jurisdiction to do so.