Judgment

RAJENDRA BABU, J.

( 1 ) RETIRAL benefits such as provident fund, gratuity and pension schemes have been common in government establishments. Such schemes were also introduced for the employees by certain enlightened employers. In addition to such benefits, the industrial Disputes Act also makes statutory provisions of compensation on the termination of the service of an employee by way of retrenchment, on transfer or closure of an undertaking. Such social security measures have introduced an element of stability and protection in the midst of stress and strains of modern industrial life. As observed by the National Commission on labour-social security, the concept of social security is based on human dignity and social justice. The underlying idea being that, social security measures would allow a citizen who has contributed or is likely to contribute to his countrys welfare should be given protection against certain hazards.

( 2 ) THE provision of provident fund has been recognised as a term of condition of employment of industrial workmen. Legislative measures have also imposed the requirements of provident fund on the employers and employees statutorily. But in respect o