K.R. Anitha And Ors vs Regional Director E.S.I. Corporation ...

The Supreme Court held that the Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948, applies to toddy shops, and the appellants, as contractors, are liable for contributions despite their claims of uncertainty regarding the Act's applicability. The Court emphasized that the Excise Department is not the principal employer, and the contractors must fulfill their obligations under the ESI Scheme. The ruling affirmed the liability of the appellants to pay contributions for the period in question, rejecting their arguments regarding the separate welfare provisions for toddy workers under the Kerala Toddy Workers Welfare Fund Act.