BINOD KUMAR Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) In this writ application the petitioner has challenged the order of the Regional Labour Commissioner (Central) an Authority under the Minimum Wages Act, Dhanbad, dated February 1, 1988, by reason of which he has directed the petitioner to pay a sum of Rs. 17094/ - towards claim of less payment and also awarded compensation to twenty one employees. The order dated December 8, 1988 has also been impugned by which the said Authority has refused to review his order.

(2.) The point, which is to be decided in this case is as to whether the Authority under the Minimum Wages Act has jurisdiction to entertain a claim for less payment of wages under Section 20(1) of Minimum Wages Act.

(3.) Respondent No, 2, Labour Enforcement Officer (Central), Gaya, exercising his power under Section 20(1) of the Minimum Wages Act complained to the Authority against the petitioner alleging, inter alia, that the petitioner has paid less than the minimum wages fixed for their categories of employment under the Act by Rs. 3.85, Rs. 5.85 per day and Rs. 4.85 per day, for the period from February 3, 1986 to March 8, 1986 as per statement enclosed with the complaint petition. The respondent No. 2 applicant estimated the value of relief sought for the workers to the tune of Rs. 5698/ -.