INSPECTOR OF PLANTATIONS Vs. P K SINGH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) A complaint was filed by the appellant under Section 36 of the Plantation Labour Act, 1951, alleging that the employer has violated various provisions of Plantation Labour Act and Rules. It was proved before the court that constructions of drains carrying waste or sullage water and its maintenance were carried out as directed by the Inspector of Plantations. Inspector of Plantations on the visit pointed out certain defects.

(2.) IT is proved by the accused that those defects were cured. A second inspection was not conducted before prosecution steps were enacted. The court also found that the accused was only the Manager of the Estate and it was not proved that he has the ultimate control over the affairs of the Estate so as to prosecute and treat him as the employer as per the Plantation Labour Act. IT was not proved that ultimate control was with the Manager. Trial court also found that allegations in the complaint were very vague. In any event, even though notice was issued on 16.9.1999, no further steps were taken to serve notice in the appeal to the accused so far. On going through the findings of the trial court, it can be seen that trial court has considered the entire matter and has taken a possible view and no interference is required in the findings of the trial court. Hence this appeal is dismissed.