The Supreme Court is set to hear interim pleas from Sahara Group employees seeking unpaid salaries. This hearing, scheduled for Monday, addresses months of delayed payments. A bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai will oversee the proceedings.
Employees have struggled without salaries for many months. Their lawyers urgently requested the court to list these pleas. This highlights the financial distress faced by the workforce.
Earlier, on October 14, the court sought responses from the Centre and SEBI. This was regarding Sahara India Commercial Corporation Ltd.’s plea to sell properties. The matter ties into broader refund obligations.
The SICCL’s plea to sell 88 prime properties to Adani Properties is already listed for November 17. This sale could potentially free up funds. It aims to address the company’s financial liabilities.
On Friday, lawyers emphasized the employees’ plight. They pushed for immediate hearing of salary pleas. The court acknowledged the urgency of the situation.
The bench, including Justices Surya Kant and M M Sundresh, had previously handled SICCL’s application. They are deeply involved in the Sahara Group’s long-standing issues. Their oversight ensures due process.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta’s submissions led to adding Union ministries as parties. The Finance and Cooperation ministries must respond by November 17. This expands the scope of the case.
The court appointed amicus curiae Shekhar Naphade to collate property details. He will assess the 88 properties proposed for sale. His role is crucial for transparency.
Naphade must note stakeholder responses and property nature. He will determine if properties are clean or disputed. This evaluation affects the sale’s viability.
The Centre, amicus curiae, and SEBI must respond to Sahara’s application. Their inputs will guide the court’s decisions. Collaboration is key here.
Chief Justice Gavai stated the court will decide on selling properties piecemeal or together. This decision impacts fund availability. It’s a critical step forward.
The court directed Sahara to examine workers’ salary claims. It also tasked the amicus curiae with reviewing salary arrears. This ensures employee concerns are addressed.
All pleas, including the intervention application, are set for November 17. The hearing will consolidate various aspects. Employees await relief.
The ongoing legal battles reflect Sahara’s complex financial woes. Employees hope for a swift resolution. Their livelihoods depend on it.
Justice remains the focus as the court balances corporate and worker interests. The November hearing could bring clarity. Many are watching closely.