This is an appeal challenging the decision dated 26th March, 1987 recorded by learned Presiding Officer, Punjab Labour Court No, 9, Multan whereby the grievance petition of the appellant has been dismissed on the sole ground that by virtue of section 1(3)(f) of Industrial Relations Ordinance, 1969, the Ordinance is not applicable. May it be so, but in cases of termination of services an application under section 25-A of Industrial Relations Ordinance, 1969 can be lodged by virtue of Order 12(3) of Standing Orders Ordinance, 1968. In the present case none appeared for the respondents before the learned lower Court with the result that no written statement was on the record. If an objection is raised on the point whether Standing Orders Ordinance, 1968 is applicable or not, the Court will decide the same after giving opportunity to both the parties. The decision of the learned lower Court in these circumstances is not sustainable.
2. As a result, the appeal is accepted and setting aside the impugned decision, the case is remanded with the direction that opportunity be given to the respondents to file written statement and after giving opportunity to both the parties to produce evidence on the disputed point, the case be decided afresh.