M/S. National Aluminium Co. Ltd vs Deepak Kumar Panda & Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision directing the petitioner-company to consider the respondent for regularization as an Assistant, despite the company's claims regarding the respondent's lack of educational qualifications and unauthorized absence. The Court emphasized that the respondent's prior contractual appointment and the treatment of similarly situated employees must be considered under the principles of fairness and equality in employment. The ruling reinforces the importance of due process in employment matters, particularly in public sector undertakings.