In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has declared that all retired High Court judges are entitled to equal and full pension under the principle of “One Rank One Pension.”
This decision ensures that pensions will no longer be determined by tenure or the mode of appointment.
The Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, along with Justices AG Masih and K Vinod Chandran, issued directives mandating the Union of India to pay:
- Rs 15 lakh annually to retired High Court Chief Justices.
- Rs 13.5 lakh annually to retired High Court judges, including those who served as additional judges.
Furthermore, the Court emphasised that family pensions and gratuity must be granted to widows or family members of deceased judges, regardless of their service status.
The judgment highlights the need for judicial independence and reinforces that all retired judges must receive equal treatment post-retirement. It also ensures that allowances such as leave encashment, pension commutation, and provident fund are provided without discrimination.
Legal experts view this decision as a significant move to uphold judicial dignity and provide financial security to retired judges.
