Step 1: Understanding the Question.
The statement "Mere illegality of the strike does not per se spell unjustifiability" reflects a judicial perspective on labor disputes, emphasizing that the legality of a strike alone does not determine its justifiability. Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, known for his progressive labor law judgments, made this observation in a case involving the balance between workers' rights and industrial discipline. The case Gujarat Steel Tubes Vs Gujarat Steel Tubes Mazdoor Sabha (1974) is a landmark decision where Justice Krishna Iyer articulated that an illegal strike may still be justifiable based on the circumstances, such as unfair labor practices by the employer.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
- Option (a) Chandramalai Estate Vs Its workmen is not associated with this specific ruling.
- Option (b) Associated Cement Ltd., Vs Their workmen deals with industrial disputes but not this exact principle.
- Option (c) Gujarat Steel Tubes Vs Gujarat Steel Tubes Mazdoor Sabha is the case where Justice Krishna Iyer delivered this nuanced view on strikes.
- Option (d) Indian General Navigation of Railway Co. Ltd., Vs Their workmen is unrelated to this specific judicial observation.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The case where Justice Krishna Iyer made this statement is Gujarat Steel Tubes Vs Gujarat Steel Tubes Mazdoor Sabha, making (c) the correct answer. This judgment highlights the importance of context in labor law adjudication.