K,K.Usha, J.

The above Original Petitions are referred for consideration of a Bench of three judges as per reference order dated. 7.1.1997 which reads as follows:

"Heard. In all these cases, a common question is involved regarding police protection under the Headload Workers Act. It was represented on behalf of the Bar that considering the importance of the matter, the question involved in these cases may be decided by a Larger Bench.

We have considered the suggestion of the Bar and, accordingly, direct that these matters will be posted before a Bench of three judges on 14th January, 1997. The learned Advocate General has taken notice and has agreed to assist the court on that day."

2. After hearing both sides, we are given to understand that the reference was necessitated in the light of a different view expressed by a Bench of this Court in Sathyan S. v. Sunila Sudhakaran & Ors., ILR 1997 (1) Kerala 549 in the matter of grant of police protection when a dispute arises regarding engagement of headload workers. Even though the Division Bench dismissed the appeal against the judgment of a learned single judge granted police protection to an employer when a dispute arose rega