BALMER LAWRIE WORKERS' UNION, BOMBAY AND ANR vs BALMER LAWRIE AND CO. LTD. AND ORS.

The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 20(2)(b) of the Maharashtra Recognition of Trade Unions and Prevention of Unfair Labour Practices Act, 1971, which grants exclusive rights to recognized unions to represent workmen in disputes. The Court ruled that this provision does not violate Articles 14 and 19(1)(a) and (c) of the Constitution, as it does not compel workmen to join recognized unions but rather regulates the representation of workmen in industrial disputes. The challenge to the deduction of 15% from gross arrears payable to workmen for the recognized union's fund was also dismissed, affirming the legality of such settlements under the Industrial Disputes Act.