The Supreme Court overturned a decision by the Allahabad High Court and a Labour Court ruling that directed the reinstatement of a worker with back wages. The Court held that an employee who was absent without authorization and failed to provide evidence to support his claims could not be granted such relief. The employee, Arjun Gupta, alleged that he was unlawfully terminated after attempting to return to work in June 2012.
The dispute arose when Gupta, employed as a moulder since August 2006, stopped attending work in May 2012 without notice. The company stated that he did not inform them of his absence and sent a notice seeking an explanation to his last known address. The Labour Court initially ruled in favor of the employee in February 2022, which was later upheld by the Allahabad High Court in October 2023.
However, the Supreme Court found errors in granting relief without sufficient evidence. It dismissed the claim that the company sent a notice to the wrong address, emphasizing the employee’s responsibility to update his information. The Court also rejected Gupta’s claim of absence due to his mother’s illness, noting the lack of evidence or communication during his absence.
The apex court further stated that Gupta failed to provide any proof of attempting to rejoin duty or informing his superiors before leaving. Consequently, the Court overturned the reinstatement order, back wages, and benefits, ruling in favor of the company.
