Bombay High Court: Journalists Not Considered Employees under Unfair Labour Practices Act

The Bombay High Court has ruled that working journalists do not fall under the definition of employees under the Maharashtra Recognition of Trade Unions and Prevention of Unfair Labour Practices Act. Citing their special status under the Working Journalists Act, the court stated that journalists have a distinct recourse to settle disputes under the Industrial Disputes Act.

The judgment, delivered on February 29, came in response to petitions filed by two working journalists challenging the rejection of their complaints by the industrial court. Emphasizing the unique privileges and protections afforded to working journalists under the Working Journalists Act, the High Court dismissed the petitions. It underscored the special status conferred on journalists, indicating that disputes should be resolved according to the provisions of the Industrial Disputes Act.