Section 6 of IDA : Section 6: Courts Of Inquiry

Explanation using Example

Imagine a situation where employees of a large automobile manufacturing company have been on strike for several weeks, demanding higher wages and better working conditions. The prolonged strike is causing significant financial losses to the company and is also affecting the supply chain within the industry. The situation is getting attention in the media and is causing concern among stakeholders.

The state government, recognizing the severity of the situation and its potential impact on the economy, decides to step in to understand the underlying issues and find a resolution. As per Section 6(1) of The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, the government issues a notification in the Official Gazette to constitute a Court of Inquiry to investigate the matter.

Following Section 6(2), the government appoints a well-respected retired judge as the independent person to lead the Court of Inquiry. The judge is known for his expertise in labor laws and industrial relations. The government believes that his experience will help in impartially understanding the complexities of the dispute.

During the inquiry, the chairman falls ill and is unable to attend several sessions. However, as per Section 6(3), the Court of Inquiry continues its work without the chairman, as it meets the prescribed quorum. The government quickly notifies the Court that the chairman's services are temporarily unavailable and proceeds to appoint an acting chairman to ensure the inquiry does not lose momentum.

The Court of Inquiry eventually presents its findings, which help in forming the basis for negotiations between the company management and the employees' union, leading towards a resolution of the dispute.