In industrial law, punishments other than dismissal which an employer can impose (depending upon the gravity of misconduct) are recommended as a measure of disciplinary action on a worker. These alternatives can be in the form of:
warning;
fine;
withholding of increment;
demotion;
suspension; and
discharge.
Courts and Tribunals
Some important points to note regarding the courts and tribunals:
The first stage of review of the employer’s disciplinary action against a worker is by the Labour Court or Industrial Tribunal appointed under the Act.
Unlike ordinary civil courts, the Industrial Tribunal’s jurisdiction does not commence on the basis of any party approaching it directly but commences on the basis of reference made by the appropriate Government under the Act.
Labour Tribunals are expected to hold proceedings expeditiously and to submit the award to the appropriate Government within the specified time, if any.
The award requires publication within a 30 day period from the date of its receipt by the appropriate Government.
An award of the Industrial Tribunal ordinarily becomes enforceable on the expiry of 30 days from the date of its publication.
