Judgment

GAJENDRAGADKAR, J. : This appeal by special leave raises a short question about the construction and effect of the provisions of S. 22(1) (d) of the Industrial Disputes Act 14 of 1947 (hereinafter called the Act.). The appellant, Ramnagar Cane and Sugar Company Limited, Calcutta, is a company incorporated under the Indian Companies Act and carries on the business of manufacturing sugar which is an essential commodity in its factory at Palsy in the District of Nadia. The appellant was declared a public utility concern or service by a notification duly issued in that behalf on October 8, 1953. The appellant employs in its business about 545 permanent men and 703 seasonal men excluding casual labourers. A majority of the workmen employed by the appellant belong to the Ramnagar Cane and Sugar Company Employees Union (hereinafter called the Employees Union (hereinafter called of Employees Union), whereas a minority of workmen belong to the rival Union called Ramnagar Sugar Mill Workers Union (hereinafter called the Workers Union). It appears that on December 9, 1953, the Workers Union presented a charter of demands to the appellant. This was followed by a similar charter o