Delhi High Court Directs Urgent Hearing for Women Army Officers' Permanent Commission Plea

Petition Transferred to Armed Forces Tribunal for Expedited Review as Officers Face Termination

In a significant development concerning the career trajectory of women officers in the Indian Army, the Delhi High Court has transferred a writ petition filed by women officers of the Judge Advocate General's Branch to the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) for an expedited hearing. The petitioners, currently serving under a Short Service Commission, are seeking a transition to Permanent Commission.

The case was heard by a division bench comprising Mr. Justice C. Hari Shankar and Justice Om Prakash Shukla. The court acknowledged the urgency of the matter, as the service tenure of the officers is set to expire in March 2026, which could potentially lead to their termination if no relief is granted.

The petitioners' counsel, Mr. J. Sai Deepak, underscored the pressing nature of the case, prompting the bench to instruct the court registry to transmit the petition directly to the AFT. This move eliminates the need for the petitioners to reinstitute their plea at the AFT, thereby saving crucial time.

The court, while transferring the matter, refrained from commenting on the merits of the case. It, however, directed both parties to appear before the AFT on October 10, 2025, emphasizing that no adjournments would be entertained on that date.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges and legal battles faced by women officers in the Indian Armed Forces in their pursuit of equal service opportunities. The High Court's decision to expedite the hearing reflects the judiciary's recognition of the potential career impact on these officers.

As the matter now rests with the AFT, the focus shifts to how the tribunal will address the concerns raised by the petitioners, who are seeking recognition of their service and a pathway to a Permanent Commission, a move seen as pivotal in advancing gender equality within the armed forces.

Bottom Line:

Women Officers of the Indian Army on Short Service Commission seeking Permanent Commission - Matter amenable to adjudication by Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) under Section 14 of the Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007 - High Court directs the Registry to transmit the petition to AFT for expeditious hearing and registration as an Original Application. 

Statutory provision(s): Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007, Section 14

Major Abindita Bisht v. Union of India, (Delhi)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2790181