DIVISIONAL MANAGER Vs. PRESIDING OFFICER

JUDGEMENT

(1.) These are seven civil revision petitions filed under Art. 227 of the Constitution of India seeking quashing of impugned order dated 07.11.2017 passed by the Presiding Officer, Industrial Tribunal and Labour Court, U.T., Chandigarh [hereinafter referred to as 'the Labour Court'] striking off the defence of the petitioner. Further, a prayer is made to set aside the order dated 14.05.2018 dismissing the application moved for re-calling of the impugned order.

(2.) The brief facts of the case are that the workmen filed applications under Sec. 33-C of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, claiming difference in wages. The notices of the said applications were issued to the petitioner. In pursuance to the notice, the petitioner put in appearance on 29.08.2016 and the case was adjourned for filing the written statements. Inspite of various opportunities provided by the Labour Court, the petitioner failed to file the written statements. The Labour Court, vide its order dated, 07.11.2017, struck off the defence of the petitioner. Applications dated 18.12.2017 for re-calling the said order were filed. The said applications were dismissed vide order dated 14.05.2018. Aggrieved of the order, present revision petitions have been filed.

(3.) Learned counsel for the petitioner contended that due to involvement of huge record and time required in tracing various documents, the written statements could not be filed. The prayer is that one opportunity may be provided as written statements is ready and would be filed immediately.