The High Court of Karnataka has ruled in favor of reinstating a Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) employee, S. Kiran (35), who was dismissed from service after being absent for a total of 632 days due to depression. Kiran argued that his absence was solely due to work-related stress and not intended to inconvenience his employer.
In a recent judgment, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Prasanna B. Varale and Justice Krishna S. Dixit supported Kiran's contention that workplace stress led to his inability to function in a work environment. The judges acknowledged that the stressors encountered in the workplace could exacerbate depression.
S Kiran, a permanent employee in the role of station attendant (Grade II) since January 2008, hails from Hassan.
A single-judge bench had previously ordered Kiran's reinstatement, a decision challenged by KPTCL through an appeal. The HC recognized that Kiran had clearly stated his severe mental distress, which resulted in his inability to engage effectively in his job. His absence was not driven by any intent to inconvenience the employer.
Furthermore, the court emphasized that the KPTCL, as a state enterprise, should act as a model employer rather than an agency of a colonial regime. The HC pointed out that as an entity under Article 12 of the Constitution of India, KPTCL should conduct itself as a model employer, treating its employees with fairness and empathy, ultimately leading to increased productivity.
Citing a US court judgment, the HC asserted that constitutions aim to safeguard practical and substantial rights rather than maintain theoretical principles. Consequently, the HC refused to interfere with the single-judge order, allowing Kiran's reinstatement.
The case underscores the importance of addressing workplace stress and employee mental health and promoting empathy and understanding in employment practices.
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