BENNETT COLEMAN & CO. (P) LTD. vs PUNYA PRIYA DAS GUPTA

The Supreme Court held that under the Working Journalists (Conditions of Service) and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1955, an ex-employee can maintain a claim for gratuity even after resignation, as per Sections 2(f), (rr), 5, and 17. The Court ruled that allowances such as car allowance and benefits of free telephone and newspapers must be included in the calculation of wages for gratuity purposes. The Court upheld the Labour Court's decree partially in favor of the respondent, allowing the claim for gratuity and leave compensation despite the appellant's contention of estoppel due to the full settlement receipt.