In a big win for workers, the Bombay High Court decided that watchmen working for the Forest Development Corporation in Nashik should be given permanent jobs. The court found that these workers had been unfairly kept as temporary employees for years.
The case involved several appeals filed by the Forest Development Corporation, Nashik, against its own watchmen. These appeals were heard together because they all dealt with the same issue. The watchmen, including people like Ravi Deshmukh and Suresh Naik, had been hired between 1977 and 1992 and worked continuously, but were still considered temporary.
The watchmen argued that they were doing permanent and essential jobs but were not given the benefits of permanent employees. They filed complaints saying that this was unfair treatment under the Maharashtra Recognition of Trade Unions and Prevention of Unfair Labour Practices Act, 1971.
"Ravi Deshmukh and Suresh Naik argued that based on established rules, they deserved the benefits of being permanent employees."
The Forest Development Corporation said that because they were funded by the state government, they didn't have to make the watchmen permanent. They argued that the workers were hired under temporary programs and therefore didn't qualify for permanent status.
On July 31, 2000, the Industrial Court decided in favor of the workers, stating that the Corporation had indeed treated them unfairly. The court ordered that the workers be given permanent jobs and back pay from April 1, 1998.
The High Court, with Judges G. S. Kulkarni and Aarti Sathe, agreed with the Industrial Court's decision on December 24, 2025. The court found that the workers had been employed continuously for over 240 days each year, which meant they should be given permanent jobs.
"The appellant’s argument of there being no approved position doesn't matter."
The ruling is a significant win for the watchmen, ensuring they get job security and the benefits that come with permanent employment. The court's decision emphasizes the importance of fair treatment in the workplace and the rights of workers to secure jobs.
"Disclaimer: The names used in this report are fictitious and have been added for privacy reasons."
