(1)

A strike or a lock-out shall be illegal if-

(i) it is commenced or declared in contravention of section 22 or section 23; or

(ii) it is continued in contravention of an order made under sub-section (3) of section 10 [or sub-section (4-A) of section 10-A] [ Inserted by Act 36 of 1964, Section 12 (w.e.f. 19.12.1964).].

(2)

Where a strike or lock-out in pursuance of an industrial dispute has already commenced and is in existence at the time of the reference of the dispute to a Board, [an arbitrator, a] [Inserted by Act 36 of 1964, Section 12 (w.e.f. 19.12.1964). ] [Labour Court, Tribunal or National Tribunal] [[ Substituted by Act 36 of 1956, Section 18, for " or Tribunal " (w.e.f.

10.3.1957 ).]], the continuance of such strike or lock-out shall not be deemed to be illegal, provided that such strike or lock-out was not at its commencement in contravention of the provisions of this Act or the continuance thereof was not prohibited under sub-section (3) of section 10 [or sub-section (4-A) of section 10-A] [Inserted by Act 36 of 1964, Section 12 (w.e.f. 19.12.1964). ].

(3)

A lock-out declared in consequence of an illegal strike or a strike declared in consequence of an illegal lock-out shall not be deemed to be illegal.