Recently on January 22, 2025, in a landmark judgment, the Industrial Tribunal-I, Delhi has ruled in favor of eight workmen represented by Delhi Labour Union who have been denied permanent status despite decades of uninterrupted service with the management of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) since decades, and directed regularization of services from their respective initial dates of joining along with all consequential benefits. This decision marks a significant step towards justice for contractual and daily-wage employees and will result in workmen getting future salaries equal to a regular workman and arrears in the exquisite range of Rs. 2 to 4 crores*.

Background of the Case

The matter relates to eight workers who had joined into the employment with the management of Shri Ram College of Commerce from 1988 to 1995 and have worked continuously for several decades in various roles, including Computer Operator, Office Attendant, Hostel Bearer, and Chowkidar. Despite the workmen coming from a poor family, they understood their rights and the importance of challenging the non-regularization of their services and the exploitation done by the management. They gathered their courage to stand against the management against the wrongs done and the union stood as a pillar in their support and initiated the case under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.

Final Verdict & Relief Granted

• The Tribunal directed that the services of the workmen be regularized from their respective initial dates of joining in their designated roles (now MTS) with full pay scales and benefits.
• Monetary benefits, including arrears, shall be granted to the workmen. In case of the 2 workmen who had expired during the pendency of the dispute, the families of deceased workmen would get all the arrears. The abovesaid monetary benefits including arrears will be in the exquisite range of Rs. 2 to 4 crores*.
• Failure to comply within 60 days would result in an 8% annual interest on the payable benefits.

Workmen to recognize their rights and stand against the wrongs

One of the most important steps for workmen is to recognize the injustices they face and the ways in which management exploits their hard work. Change begins when workers stand together and voice their concerns. A union can only protect their rights if they come forward with their grievances. That’s why it’s crucial to look out not only for yourself but also for your fellow workers. When one of us is mistreated, we all feel the impact. If you see a colleague being exploited, don’t stay silent—stand together, support each other, and bring the issue to the union. Unity is strength, and together, we can ensure fairness and dignity in the workplace.

A Win for Contractual Workers

This ruling sets a strong precedent for other contractual employees facing similar injustices. It highlights the importance of challenging unfair labor practices and holding institutions accountable for denying workers their due rights. With this victory, the fight for labour justice takes a significant step forward in ensuring that long-serving employees receive the dignity, recognition, and financial security they deserve.