however, dismissed on 25th July 2006. On 26th July 2006, the Petitioner has deposited an amount of Rs.2,61,900/- with the Assistant Labour Commissioner (Central-III) who is the Controlling Authority. Counsel appearing on behalf of the Petitioner submitted that since the deposit of the dues on account of gratuity has been effected, the Appellate Authority may be directed to dispose of the appeal on merits. In response to the notice issued by the Court, the First Respondent has appeared in person. Though undoubtedly the Petitioner had initially not furnished a deposit, the Petitioner has in fact, now done so, in so far as the basic dues of gratuity are concerned. In these circumstances, the interest of justice do warrant that the Petitioner should be given an opportunity of availing of the appellate remedy. Having regard to the provisions of Section 7(7) of the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, read with Section 7(3A), the Petitioner shall deposit the total amount of interest calculated with reference to the order passed by the Controlling Authority within a period of two weeks from today. Upon such deposit, the appeal filed by the Petitioner shall be heard and disposed of on merits. Upon deposit of the amount towards interest, the orders of the Appellate Authority dated 16th June 2006 and 25th July 2006 shall stand quashed and set aside and the appeal shall be set down for hearing on merits. The
