In a long-awaited recognition of extraordinary courage, the Supreme Court has ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to award Rs.5 lakh, along with a commendation letter and citation, to 84-year-old retired sub-inspector Ram Autar Singh Yadav for his bravery in thwarting a dacoit attack 38 years ago.
A bench consisting of Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and Ujjal Bhuyan criticized the state government for offering only ₹1 lakh as a reward for Yadav’s heroic actions, stating that the authorities should have been more generous. The court also expressed regret that Yadav was not nominated for a national police medal, a recognition that could have inspired the entire police force of Uttar Pradesh.
The incident in question took place on March 13, 1986, when Yadav was posted as the station house officer at Bisanda police station in Banda district. While returning to his station by bus, Yadav and other passengers were ambushed by armed dacoits. Undeterred, Yadav drew his service revolver and fired at the attackers, killing Chhidawa, a notorious criminal involved in numerous robberies. His bravery saved the lives of the passengers and prevented the robbery.
Despite a recommendation from the local superintendent of police (SP) in 1989 for Yadav to receive a President’s Gallantry Police Medal, the proposal was inexplicably shelved, and no further action was taken. Yadav continued to pursue recognition for his courage after his retirement, but his efforts were met with bureaucratic delays and legal roadblocks.
Senior advocate Rana Mukherjee assisted the court as amicus curiae in the case, while Yadav appeared in person to argue his cause. The Supreme Court expressed frustration over the state’s failure to act on the SP’s recommendation and the delays in awarding recognition for Yadav’s bravery. The court also criticized the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Tribunal for dismissing Yadav’s plea on technical grounds, and the high court for not addressing the matter in a timely manner.
In its ruling, the court not only set aside the high court’s decision but also awarded Yadav ₹5 lakh—₹1 lakh of which was already proposed by the state, with an additional ₹4 lakh added by the Supreme Court. The government has been directed to present this reward “with due dignity and honour” by January 26, 2025.
While acknowledging that no monetary amount could fully compensate for Yadav’s bravery, the court noted that the ₹5 lakh award was meant as a symbolic gesture of appreciation for his actions during a critical moment in history. The court’s ruling highlights the importance of recognizing acts of courage, even many years after they occur.
