What: A Public Interest Litigation was filed in Supreme Court seeking the abolition of “Sahayak System”.
What Does “Sahayak” mean?
The meaning of Sahayak can be loosely translated to the word “buddy” which is a vernacular used in life. In the army, two soldiers are paired up for the purposes of military operations or any military postings.
What is “Sahayak System”?
The reasoning behind this system is to ensure the safety of the soldiers. Along with the task given to them, they also have to take care of their fellow soldiers during the course of war or peace. However, the concept has been originated under the Colonial System.
Arguments of Petitioner:
While arguing the petitioner cited a parliamentary committee in favour of discontinuing the “Sahayak System”. Moreover, it was submitted that the level of treatment offered to army jawans when not in “otherwise valid course of employment” is not appropriate, hence such practice should be stopped.
Court’s Reasoning & Judgment:
The Bench headed by Chief Justice UU Lalit, Justice Ravindra Bhat, and Justice Bela M Trivedi, could not be persuaded by the argument made by the petitioner. It was the court’s opinion that Sahayak means Helper. It is a valid phenomenon under which the soldier who has been assigned to its posting has to do considering “Sahayak” as part of the work nature.
As a result of this, the Court said it would either or the petitioner withdraws. To which the petition was withdrawn.
