BANGALORE WATER-SUPPLY & SEWERAGE BOARD, ETC. vs R. RAJAPPA & OTHERS

The Supreme Court ruled that the term 'industry' under Section 2(j) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, encompasses activities that produce goods or services capable of being marketed, regardless of the motive behind them. The Court held that the appellant Board, which provides essential amenities to citizens, qualifies as an 'industry' and thus the employees are considered workmen under the Act. The preliminary objection raised by the Board was overruled, affirming the Labour Court's jurisdiction to adjudicate the claims of the employees.