Authority: Supreme Court of India, Civil Appellate Jurisdiction
Order Date: 21 July 2026
Case Overview
- Parties: Appellants – Archana Bansal & Ors.; Respondents – Directorate of Education & Anr.
- The appeal challenged a Delhi High Court judgment dated 17 August 2015 which refused to release the balance 50% of back wages due to the deceased Principal K.K. Bansal for the period 01 April 2002 to 22 July 2003.
- The High Court observed that the institution had given K.K. Bansal an opportunity to produce documents proving he was not gainfully employed during the unemployment period; he refused, yet the institution granted him 50% of the back wages.
- In subsequent proceedings, the appellants attempted to submit K.K. Bansal’s income‑tax returns for the relevant assessment years, digitally signed by Manik Kumar on 22 July 2026 (18:16:57 IST). The High Court considered that K.K. Bansal was imparting tuition classes and earning through self‑employment, thereby applying the “no work‑no pay” rule and refusing relief.
- The Supreme Court reviewed the High Court’s reasoning and found no basis to depart from it.
Final Outcome
- The Supreme Court upheld the High Court judgment, dismissing Civil Appeal No.1555/2016.
- The Directorate of Education agreed to pay Rs 1,00,000 (One lakh rupee) to the first appellant (widow of K.K. Bansal) upon her presenting a copy of this order to the Principal of the institution.
- All pending applications, if any, are disposed of.
Topics: Wage Claim, Education Sector