LAXMAN vs STATE INDUSTRIAL COURT & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that the appellant, a dismissed employee, qualifies as an 'employee' under Section 2(10) of the C.P. and Berar Industrial Disputes Settlement Act, 1947, allowing him to seek redress under Section 16(2) for reinstatement and compensation. The Court clarified that the definition of 'employee' includes those who have ceased to be in service, and that disputes regarding reinstatement are considered industrial disputes under Section 2(12). Consequently, the appeal was allowed, overturning the lower court's dismissal of the appellant's petition.