Union of India vs. E Krishna Rao: Contempt Petition and Arrears Settlement

The case of Union of India vs. E Krishna Rao revolves around a dispute regarding the disbursement of arrears and benefits for employees classified as TV News Correspondents (TVNCs) and TV Assistant News Correspondents (TVANCs). The Supreme Court, in its decision, provided a framework for ensuring that the benefits due to these individuals were properly disbursed.

The Union of India filed a review petition to contest the order granting arrears and other benefits to certain individuals. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the review petition, upholding its previous order. As a result, the government was required to release arrears to all similarly situated individuals without the need for further litigation.

Petitioner’s Arguments

The Union of India, represented by Additional Solicitor General Mr. Vikramjit Banerjee, argued that the arrears should only be provided to those who had actively participated in the case. The government contended that those who had not formally been a part of the proceedings should not automatically be entitled to benefits. The petitioner further argued that extending benefits to all similarly placed individuals would create a financial burden on the government.

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Respondent’s Arguments

The respondent, E Krishna Rao, and other beneficiaries contended that the principle of equal treatment should apply. They argued that since the court had already ruled in favor of TVNCs and TVANCs, the same benefits should be extended to all similarly placed individuals. The respondent emphasized that excluding non-litigants would be unfair and against the spirit of equality enshrined in the Constitution.

Key Observations of the Court

The Supreme Court, led by Justice Dr. Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and Justice Sanjiv Khanna, observed:

• Since the benefits had already been granted to some individuals, others who were similarly placed could not be denied the same advantages.
• The government must ensure that arrears were disbursed fairly and equitably, without necessitating additional legal proceedings.
• The principle of equal treatment under Article 14 of the Constitution mandated that similarly placed employees be treated on the same footing.

Final Decision of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court ruled that the arrears should be paid to all eligible individuals by March 15, 2022. Furthermore, it directed that TV Assistant News Editors (TVANEs), who were also similarly placed, should receive benefits by June 30, 2022. The court disposed of all pending applications and petitions, thereby concluding the matter.

This ruling has significant implications for public sector employees and government beneficiaries, reaffirming the judiciary’s role in upholding fair labor practices and ensuring equitable treatment.

Petitioner Name: Union of India.
Respondent Name: E Krishna Rao.
Judgment By: Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, Justice Sanjiv Khanna.
Place Of Incident: India.
Judgment Date: 28-01-2022.

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