BIHAR STATE ROAD TRANSPORT CORPORATION vs STATE OF BIHAR & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that the third respondent, a Head Clerk, was a 'workman' under Section 2(s) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, and that his termination was punitive, requiring adherence to principles of natural justice. The Labour Court's finding that the termination was illegal was upheld, as the Corporation, being the successor to the Rajya Transport Authority, was responsible for the respondent's conditions of service. The appeal was dismissed, affirming the Labour Court's order for reinstatement.