MGMT. OF SUNDARAM INDUSTRIES LTD. vs SUNDARAM INDUSTRIES EMPLOYEE UNION

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Industrial Tribunal which found that the dismissal of 13 workmen for persistent disobedience was disproportionate to the misconduct. The Court emphasized that while the domestic inquiry was fair, the punishment imposed was excessive, thus affirming the Tribunal's order for reinstatement with 50% back wages. The judgment reinforces the principle that disciplinary actions must be proportionate to the misconduct as per established labour law principles.