Shimla, May 16
The Himachal Pradesh High Court delivered a significant verdict, upholding a 2019 single bench ruling that mandates the state government to provide 12 months’ worth of salary to midday meal workers. This decision stems from a legal battle initiated by the Center of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), representing the rights of these workers.
Sanjeev Bhushan, senior advocate for CITU, affirmed the court’s decision, citing Article 214 of the constitution, which prohibits discrimination among individuals. The initial petition was filed in 2009, challenging the discrepancy in salary disbursement for state employees. After a decade-long legal struggle, the single bench of the Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled in favor of the midday meal workers in 2019.
The ruling party at the time, led by Jai Ram Thakur, contested the decision and brought the matter to the division bench of the High Court, leading to a five-years-long deliberation. Eventually, the division bench upheld the single bench’s order, emphasizing the constitutional right to equitable treatment for all employees.
Vijender Mehra, President of CITU, hailed the court’s decision as a victory after fifteen years of perseverance. However, despite the legal triumph, the government in Himachal Pradesh had yet to implement the ruling, unlike the prompt action taken by the Punjab government.
Mehra urged immediate action from the state government to honor the court’s decision and extend financial benefits to midday meal workers retroactively from 2019. The delay in implementation highlights the ongoing struggle for labor rights and the importance of legal advocacy in ensuring justice for all workers.
In essence, the court’s verdict underscores the principle of equality enshrined in Article 214 of the constitution, reaffirming that no two sets of employees should be treated differently under the law. It serves as a beacon of hope for marginalized workers and a reminder of the enduring battle for fair treatment and labor rights in society.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
