Bombay High Court Expresses Displeasure Over Centre's Delay in Agniveer Benefits Case
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday strongly criticized the Central government for its delay in filing a reply to a petition concerning the posthumous benefits for Agniveer Murali Naik. A bench led by Justice Ravindra Ghuge was hearing the petition filed by Jyothibai Naik, the mother of the deceased Agniveer, who is seeking equal benefits, including pension and welfare measures, for 'Agniveers' on par with regular soldiers who die in the line of duty.
Details of the Petition and Judicial Proceedings
Murali Naik, aged 25, was killed during Operation Sindoor in Poonch district, Jammu & Kashmir, on May 9, 2025. The High Court had initially issued a notice to the respondents, including the Ministry of Defence, on January 17, 2025, but the Centre had yet to submit its response. During the hearing, the Centre's advocate requested an additional four weeks to file the reply, a plea that the judges found "to be a bit inconsiderate" given the sensitivity and urgency of the matter.
The court directed the Centre to file its reply by May 7, 2025, with a stern warning that failure to comply would result in "heavy costs." Additionally, the hearing was scheduled for June 18, 2025, and the state government was also instructed to submit its reply in a timely manner. This case highlights ongoing legal and administrative challenges in ensuring equitable treatment for Agniveers under the Agnipath scheme, which has been a subject of public and judicial scrutiny.
Broader Implications and Context
The petition underscores the broader issue of benefits for Agniveers, who serve in the armed forces under short-term contracts. Unlike regular soldiers, their families often face uncertainties regarding posthumous entitlements, leading to legal battles. The Bombay High Court's intervention in this case reflects the judiciary's role in addressing such disparities and holding authorities accountable for delays that affect grieving families.
Key points from the proceedings include:
- The court's frustration with the Centre's procrastination in a matter involving national security and welfare.
- The specific demand for parity in benefits between Agniveers and regular soldiers, which could set a precedent for future cases.
- The judicial emphasis on timely responses to ensure justice for the petitioner, Jyothibai Naik, who has been awaiting resolution since her son's death.
This development is closely watched by military families and policymakers, as it may influence reforms in the Agnipath scheme and related policies. The court's firm stance serves as a reminder of the legal obligations to uphold the rights of service members and their dependents, regardless of their contractual status.
