(1.) This case raises a point of widespread application. The question is about the powers of the statutory corporations to terminate the services of their employees.
(2.) The petitioner joined the Indian Airlines Corporation on 20th October, 1955 as an office assistant. Since then he had been working there. In October, 1973 there was a general strike in the Corporation. On 24th November, 1973 the Corporation declared a lock-cue. On 18th December, 1973 lock-out was lifted. But in December, 1973 the Corporation demanded an undertaking from its employees and those who were prepared to give an undertaking in the prescribed form could join service.
(3.) On 24th December, 1973 the petitioner gave an undertaking in the form demanded. But he however added the following in the undertaking: