Army's Core of National Security is a Sovereign Function, Does Not Qualify as an Industry : J&K HC

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court ruled that the Indian Army is not an ‘Industry’ under labor laws, overturning the Labor Court's decision and ordering the reinstatement of porters with full back wages.

The court held that national security is a sovereign function, and even non-combat personnel supporting military operations cannot be classified separately. Porters carrying rations and ammunition play a vital role in Army duties.

Citing Bangalore Water Supply & Sewerage Board vs. A. Rajappa (1978), the court stated that such disputes fall under the Central Government’s jurisdiction, not J&K’s.

It urged the Army to treat porters fairly with a compassionate approach.