November 25, 2025
Web desk
India’s Supreme Court has upheld the removal of Lt. Samuel Kamalesan, a Christian Army officer who declined a superior’s order to enter a gurdwara. The bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, called his behaviour “gross indiscipline” and said such refusal could not be tolerated within the armed forces.
The court remarked that while Kamalesan may have shown professional merit in other areas, his unwillingness to participate in a routine regimental activity made him a “misfit” for military service. Judges stressed that discipline and unit cohesion take precedence over personal preferences or individual interpretations of faith.
Kamalesan, formerly serving with the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, had argued that entering the gurdwara would compromise his Christian beliefs. He maintained that the directive conflicted with his religious convictions, making compliance impossible for him.
However, the Supreme Court ruled that the Army operates on collective practices and lawful orders, which all personnel are required to follow. The bench said personal faith cannot be used as grounds to reject routine commands, especially in a force that relies on unity, respect for all religions, and strict discipline.
