JAYDIP INDUSTRIES, THANA vs THE WORKMEN

The Supreme Court held that under Section 3(2A) of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, an Industrial Tribunal can fix minimum wages at rates higher than those set by the government during the pendency of an industrial dispute. The Court clarified that minimum wages must ensure not only sustenance but also the efficiency of workers, and the tribunal's fixation of higher wages was justified despite the appellant's financial instability. The ruling emphasized that the capacity of the industry to pay is not a relevant consideration when determining minimum wages.