Hindalco Industries Ltd vs Association Of Engineering Workers

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Industrial Court, affirming that Hindalco Industries Ltd. engaged in unfair labour practices by treating workmen in its canteen as contract workers to avoid granting them permanency and benefits under the MRTU and PULP Act, 1971. The Court emphasized that workmen in statutory canteens are considered employees of the principal employer, thus entitling them to the same rights as permanent workers. The appeal was dismissed, confirming the workers' status and their entitlement to benefits.