The Supreme Court ordered Uttar Pradesh to pay Rs 5 lakh to 83-year-old retired constable Ram Autar Singh Yadav for his bravery against dacoits 34 years ago. Yadav, who previously sought a Gallantry Award, faced delays until the court highlighted his contributions. This ruling emphasizes recognizing the sacrifices of unsung heroes.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the State of Uttar Pradesh to pay Rs 5 lakh as an honorarium to retired constable Ram Autar Singh Yadav, an 83-year-old who bravely saved lives from dacoits over three decades ago.
A Bench comprising Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and Ujjal Bhuyan commended the State for issuing a commendation certificate to the former constable. “These things matter a lot to people. It is not that the petitioner needs money,“ Justice Surya Kant remarked, emphasizing the symbolic value of recognition.
The case dates back to 1989, when Yadav’s act of bravery—killing a dacoit and saving the public—was recommended for a Gallantry Award. However, the recommendation remained unacted upon for 34 years.
After the Allahabad High Court dismissed Yadav’s plea in August 2023 on grounds of “gross delay,” the constable moved the Supreme Court seeking justice.
In February 2024, the top court had sought a response from the Uttar Pradesh government, stating:
“Considering the petitioner’s act of bravery in saving the public by killing a dacoit and the fact that he was recommended for a Gallantry Award on 03.08.1989, we are inclined to issue notice to the respondents.”
Acknowledging the petitioner’s selfless service, the Supreme Court directed the State to compensate him with Rs 5 lakh as a gesture of honor and recognition.
The court also appointed Senior Advocate Rana Mukherjee as Amicus Curiae to assist in the matter.
This judgment not only provides monetary relief but also underscores the importance of honoring unsung heroes who have risked their lives for the public good.
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