MAHABIR PROSAD CHOUDHARY vs M/S OCTAVIUS TEA AND INDUSTRIES LTD. AND ANR.

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Calcutta High Court, affirming the Industrial Tribunal's ex-parte award for reinstatement of the appellant under the West Bengal Industrial Disputes Rules, 1958. The Court found that the Tribunal acted correctly in rejecting the company's application to recall the award, as it was filed beyond the stipulated time frame, rendering the Tribunal functus officio. The Court emphasized the importance of adherence to procedural rules and the principles of natural justice, ultimately dismissing the appeal.