Shahaji vs Executive Engineer, P.W.D.

The Supreme Court held that the delay in making a reference to the Labour Court does not bar the court from determining the legality of termination, as established in Ajaib Singh v. Sirhind Co-op. Nedungadi Bank Ltd. The Court emphasized that even if there is a delay, the Labour Court has the discretion to mold relief, including the possibility of curtailing back wages. The appeal was allowed, and the High Court's judgment was set aside, directing the Labour Court to proceed with the reference expeditiously.