Supreme Court Nine-Judge Bench Begins Hearing on Definition of 'Industry' Under Labour Law

The Supreme Court of India has commenced hearings before a nine-judge Constitution Bench to reconsider the 1978 Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board verdict that broadly defined the term "industry" under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The bench is examining whether this expansive interpretation remains appropriate amid economic reforms and the new Industrial Relations Code, 2020. Key issues include whether government social welfare activities qualify as "industry" and the legal impact of subsequent amendments. Attorney General R Venkataramani is presenting submissions, with the hearing expected to conclude soon.