In a significant move, the Supreme Court has drawn attention to the inadequate pensions being provided to District Judges across India.
These judicial officers, who play a crucial role in the administration of justice, have been grappling with meagre post-retirement benefits. The Court has now urged the Centre to address this pressing issue promptly.
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, leading the bench, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
He stated, “We, being the guardians of the district judiciary, urge you—the attorney general and the solicitor general—to sit together with the amicus curiae and find a way out.”
The Court recognizes that some of these cases are “extremely hard,” highlighting the urgency of a resolution.
The Plight of District Judges for Pensions
Inadequate Pensions: District Judges, after years of dedicated service, find themselves receiving pensions as low as ₹15,000 per month. This stark contrast to their responsibilities during active service is a matter of concern.
Career Trajectory: District Judges often transition to High Courts, where they continue to contribute significantly to the legal system. However, their retirement benefits remain disproportionately low.
Upon elevation, they retire with a pension of ₹30,000 per month, which fails to reflect their years of commitment and expertise.
Limited Arbitration Opportunities: Very few High Court Judges handle arbitration matters. Moreover, at the age of 60, they are restricted from engaging in legal practice. This limitation affects their financial well-being and professional growth.
Social Profile: Consideration of their social profile is essential. District Judges often miss out on lucrative opportunities that their counterparts in other legal domains enjoy.
Also Watch: How Gen AI Transforms L&D with Predictive Analytics, Click Here
Centre’s Response and Deferred Hearing on Pensions
Attorney General R. Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, sought time to present arguments related to pension aspects for District Court Judges.
The Court acknowledged their submissions and deferred the hearing to August 27.
This decision came in response to a plea filed by the All India Judges Association, seeking the implementation of welfare measures for retired Judges.
Compliance with Pay Commission Recommendations
Meanwhile, lawyer K. Parmeswar, assisting the Court as amicus curiae, informed the bench that several States have complied with the Second National Judicial Pay Commission (SNJPC) recommendations.
These recommendations pertain to the payment of arrears of pension and other retirement benefits to judicial officers.
The States have begun filing compliance affidavits, signaling progress in this critical area.
Uniformity in Service Conditions
The Supreme Court, in its earlier verdict on January 10, stressed the need for uniformity in service conditions for judicial officers nationwide.
This call for equitable treatment remains relevant as the Court seeks to rectify the pension-related disparities faced by District Judges. The Supreme Court’s intervention sheds light on an essential issue affecting our judicial system.
Let’s hope for a swift resolution that honors the contributions of District Judges and ensures their dignified retirement.
Note: We are also on WhatsApp, LinkedIn, Google News, and YouTube, to get the latest news updates, Subscribe to our Channels. WhatsApp– Click Here, Google News– Click Here, YouTube – Click Here, and LinkedIn– Click Here.
