New India Assurance Co. Ltd vs M/S. Abhilash Jewellery

The Supreme Court held that an apprentice does not qualify as an 'employee' under the Jeweller's Block Policy, as the term 'employee' in the insurance contract must be interpreted in its common parlance meaning, rather than the broader definitions provided in various statutes such as the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act. The Court found that the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's interpretation was incorrect, leading to the conclusion that the claim for loss of gold ornaments was not maintainable. Consequently, the order of the National Commission was set aside and the appeal was allowed.