The Supreme Court has limited the 1978 "industry" definition for the new labor code. A nine-judge bench held the 1978 ruling will not govern the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. Pending cases under the old law will still use the "triple test" definition. The court found the reference seeking reconsideration of the 1978 judgment valid. This ruling impacts how labor protections are applied to various sectors.

The Supreme Court’s nine-judge bench will rule on the definition of “industry” under the Industrial Disputes Act and examine the landmark 1978 judgment.

The ruling had far-reaching consequences, bringing several activities outside the conventional commercial or industrial sphere within the ambit of the Industrial Disputes Act |…

The Supreme Court redefines 'industry' in the new Labour Code, sidelining a 1978 precedent that protected workers' rights.