Politics · India Bureau
Centre approves gallantry medal for former Madhya Pradesh police officer
The Union government has agreed to confer the President's Medal for Gallantry on retired police officer Vivek Singh Chouhan, ending a legal dispute that had drawn the Supreme Court's criticism. The move comes after the apex court expressed displeasure at the Centre's failure to comply with a Madhya Pradesh High Court directive on the matter.
LSN India ·
The Centre informed the Supreme Court that it has granted approval to confer the President's Medal for Gallantry on Chouhan, a former Madhya Pradesh police officer, resolving a case that had highlighted delayed implementation of lower court orders. The announcement came during proceedings where the apex court had taken note of the government's non-compliance with the High Court's earlier direction regarding the award. The Supreme Court's intervention underscored concerns about administrative delays in honouring gallantry awards, which are among the highest civilian recognitions for bravery. Chouhan's case had been pending for a considerable period, prompting the High Court to intervene and direct the Centre to process the award. The approval signals the government's willingness to move forward with the honour following judicial pressure. The President's Medal for Gallantry is bestowed on individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage and bravery in dangerous situations. The resolution of Chouhan's case is expected to set a precedent for timely processing of such awards and administrative compliance with court directives across similar matters.