Case Note & Summary
The dispute arose between the Association of Employees of the National Productivity Council and the Chairman of the National Productivity Council regarding wage parity among employees. The petition was filed seeking special leave to appeal against a decision of the Delhi High Court. The Supreme Court, upon hearing the arguments, noted that the doctrine of 'equal pay for equal work' does not apply automatically in all cases and requires a structured assessment. The court referred to a precedent in State of Haryana & Others Vs. Charanjit Singh & Others, emphasizing the need for an Equi Valance Committee to evaluate the nature of work and responsibilities before determining wage parity. The court directed the management to appoint an Expert Committee to assess the claims of the workmen, who were to present relevant materials, including a resolution from the Board of Directors dated November 1, 1992. An interim settlement between the management and workmen was acknowledged, which would remain in effect until the Committee's decision on pay parity. The appeal was disposed of with no order as to costs.
Headnote
A) Employment Law - Equal Pay for Equal Work - Application of Doctrine - Constitution of Equi Valance Committee - The Supreme Court held that the doctrine of 'equal pay for equal work' does not apply automatically and requires an assessment by an Equi Valance Committee to determine pay parity based on work nature and responsibilities - Management directed to appoint an Expert Committee to evaluate claims of wage parity (Paras Not mentioned).
Issue of Consideration
Whether the doctrine of equal pay for equal work applies and the process for determining pay parity among workmen.
Final Decision
The Supreme Court granted leave and disposed of the appeal, directing the management to appoint an Expert Committee to assess wage parity claims, with an interim settlement acknowledged to remain in effect until the Committee's decision.
Law Points
- Equal pay for equal work
- Equi Valance Committee
- Interim settlement
