Supreme Court Flags Meagre Pensions for District Judges, Demands Swift Resolution

The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the inadequate pensions of district judges and called for the Centre to address the issue promptly. Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud highlighted cases of judges suffering due to low pensions. The All India Judges Association has petitioned for better welfare measures, with several states now in compliance with pay commission recommendations.

The Supreme Court on Thursday highlighted significant issues concerning the meagre pension awarded to district judges, urging the Centre to address the situation promptly.

''We, being the guardian 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,'' Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud stated.

The CJI pointed out particularly severe cases, noting one involving a district judge battling cancer and remarked on the numerous pension-related grievances filed in the top court. ''District judges only receive Rs 15,000 as pension. Generally, they get elevated to high courts in their mid-50s and retire with Rs 30,000 per month,'' the bench, also comprising justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, elaborated.

The CJI also noted the limited arbitration opportunities for high court judges and their challenges in resuming legal practice after 60 years old. Finally, the court recorded that several states have now complied with the Second National Judicial Pay Commission recommendations, and compliance affidavits are being submitted.

(With inputs from agencies.)