CASE NAME: RAM AUTAR SINGH YADAV VS THE STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH & ORS.
CASE NO.: Civil Appeal No. 13806 of 2024
DATED: December 04, 2024
QUORUM: Hon’ble Justice Surya Kant, Justice Dipankar Datta, Justice Ujjal Bhuyan
FACTS OF THE CASE
The case involves an appeal by Ram Autar Singh Yadav, an octogenarian and former Sub-Inspector of the Uttar Pradesh Police. The incident dates back to 1986, when the appellant valiantly fought off a gang of dacoits who had attacked a bus he was traveling in, resulting in the death of a hardened criminal. Despite recommendations for a gallantry award in 1989, no recognition or award was conferred on him during his service or post-retirement. After years of fruitless correspondence with authorities and dismissals on procedural grounds, including from the Public Service Tribunal and the Allahabad High Court, the appellant sought justice from the Supreme Court.
Hence the present appeal.
ISSUES OF THE CASE
- Whether the failure of the government to act on the recommendation made in 1989 for the President’s Police Medal was a violation of the appellant’s rights?
- Whether the denial of recognition and lack of action by the State has caused infringement of the rights of the appellant as per Articles 14 and article 21?
LEGAL PROVISION
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- Article 226 of the Indian Constitution: This article gives the High Courts with the power to issue writs to any person or authority, including the government.
- Article 14 of the Indian Constitution: This article ensures equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.
- Article 21 of the Indian Constitution: The right to life under this article means a life of dignity to live in.
CONTENTIONS BY THE APPELLANT/ RESPONDENT
NO CONTENTIONS WERE GIVEN IN THE JUDGEMENT
JUDGEMENT
The Supreme Court has allowed the appeal against the dismissal by the High Court and further orders the Government of Uttar Pradesh to pay an extra monetary award of ₹4,00,000, which should bring the total amount to ₹5,00,000. In fact, this also has to be noted that such recognition, albeit symbolic, is token acknowledgement of the courageous efforts made by the appellant in his later years. The order also mentioned that payments will be made by January 26, 2025, with due dignity.
ANALYSIS
The case holds out the much-called judiciary message to put right the systemic indifferent layers to deliver justice, often late, for the deserving. It stresses the importance of recognizing acts of bravery for boosting morale in the police as well as society. This case acts as a reminder for the authorities in the administration regarding the importance of timely action on these commendations and recommendations
CONCLUSION
Even more, important is that the decision of the Supreme Court in this case is a step ahead towards fairness and justice, especially for retired public servants who committed their lives to service. It not only celebrates the courage of the appellant but also signals the commitment of the judiciary to countering institutional apathy.
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WRITTEN BY: SHAKCHI VERMA
