JUDGMENT :

DEEPAK ROSHAN, J.

Heard learned counsel for the parties.

2. This writ petition has been filed seeking the quashing and setting aside of the Award dated 29.04.2025, passed in Reference Case No. 06/2021 (Annexure 12 to Writ Petition). Through this Award, the Management has been directed to reinstate the Respondent-workmen in service with 50% back wages and continuity in service. The petitioner also challenges the order dated 14/09/2023 (Annexure 8 of the writ petition), which held that the domestic enquiry conducted into the charges against the respondent, workmen was unfair and improper, primarily on the grounds that outsider witnesses were not permitted by the enquiry officer in support of the delinquent workmen.

3. Chronology of Evidence and Background Facts

(i) During the Covid-19 pandemic, a nationwide lockdown was imposed. However, to ensure industrial productivity, the Government of India relaxed the restrictions for industries and permitted operations to resume from 20/04/2020. The Management issued a letter dated 09/06/2020, by registered post, to the respondent, Dharmendra Kumar, requiring his explanation for continued absence from duties even after 20/04/2020, withou