J.H. Jadhav vs M/S. Forbes Gokak Ltd

The Supreme Court held that the appellant's claim for promotion constituted an industrial dispute under Section 2(k) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, as it was espoused by the Gokak Mills Staff Union, thereby satisfying the requirement of representation. The Court found that the Tribunal's conclusion of unfair labor practice by the respondent was justified, as no evidence was presented to support the denial of promotion based on merit. The Court upheld the Tribunal's award directing the respondent to promote the appellant retroactively to the date of promotion of his juniors, along with all consequential benefits.