Section 18-B of the ID Act: The Contradiction

I'm totally lost with Section 18-B of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. It states that in case of layoff, the employer can't retrench workers without prior government approval unless it's an urgent case of a temporary nature. But what's the condition for what is 'urgent' or a 'temporary nature'? The government or the Supreme Court (in the case of Grasim Industries vs. Labour Department) has given various interpretations which is creating more confusion. Is it till the company's situation gets stable or till a certain timeframe? It's totally open-ended, making it difficult for employers and employees alike. In theory, it's a good safeguard, but how's it being implemented practically? Any of you guys get this one?