M/S.LOKMAT NEWSPAPER PVT LTD vs SHANKARPRASAD

The Supreme Court held that the discharge of the respondent-employee by the appellant-management constituted an 'unfair labour practice' under the Maharashtra Recognition of Trade Unions & Prevention of Unfair Labour Practices Act, 1971. The Court emphasized that the introduction of new technology leading to redundancy must be handled in accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, particularly Section 9-A, which mandates prior notice for changes in conditions of service. The Court upheld the Industrial Court's decision that the transfer orders were illegal and required withdrawal, thereby affirming the protection of employee rights against arbitrary management actions.