Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Neither I nor II follows.
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Industrial relations require balanced action that protects business continuity while respecting legitimate worker concerns. The statement reports a protest via mass casual leave. We evaluate whether knee-jerk policy withdrawal (I) or mass suspension (II) is justified as an immediate course of action.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Proportionality and due process are key. Immediate reversal (I) ignores analysis and sets a harmful precedent (policy-making by pressure). Blanket suspension (II) escalates conflict, invites litigation, and may cripple operations.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Maintain essential services via contingency staffing; record attendance and leave misuse, if any.2) Initiate dialogue with employee representatives; set up a joint committee to review policy concerns on timeline.3) Conduct a rapid impact, legal, and market benchmarking review of the recruitment policy; issue an official clarificatory note if required.4) Apply discipline on proven misconduct individually (not mass punishment), following show-cause and inquiry procedures.
Verification / Alternative check:
Either I or II, taken immediately, risks reputational and operational fallout. A structured process better aligns with corporate governance and labour law.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only I: capitulation without review undermines management credibility. Only II: overbroad punishment violates due process. Either/Both: both are extreme; neither is a sound first move.
Common Pitfalls:
Reacting punitively or capitulating instantly; ignoring statutory conciliation mechanisms.
Final Answer:
Neither I nor II follows.
Discussion & Comments