The Court was hearing a plea filed by the watchman (petitioner) in 2004. The petitioner was hired in December 1992 initially receiving a monthly salary of ₹30. The following year, he officially assumed the role of a choukidar (watchman). His salary was raised from ₹30 to ₹150 in 1998, and he has been receiving this amount ever since.
The counsel for the petitioner argued that he had continuously served for ten years since 1992 working daily from 10 AM to 4 PM just like other employees. Therefore, he was entitled to the minimum pay scale of a Class IV employee.
The counsel added that his client had made representations to official authorities but no action was taken on the same.
The counsel for the State argued that the appointment of the petitioner was on the basis of monthly allowance and not as a Class IV employee. Since he was a part-time choukidar, he cannot be paid money applicable to regular pay scale, it was contended.
Source: Barandbench
