Sr. Senior Superintendent Of Post ... vs Gursewak Singh

The Supreme Court addressed whether a Gramin Dak Sewak qualifies as an 'employee' under Section 2(e) of the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, and thus entitled to gratuity upon voluntary resignation. The Court held that Gramin Dak Sewaks are indeed considered employees under the Act, and their entitlement to gratuity is not negated by voluntary resignation as per the Gramin Dak Sewak (Conduct & Engagement) Rules, 2011. The appeal by the Department was dismissed, affirming the lower court's ruling in favor of the Respondent.