The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the inadequate pension being provided to retired district judges in India. During a hearing on the matter of the pension scheme for judicial officers, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud highlighted the dire financial conditions faced by retired district judges, emphasizing that they were receiving pensions as low as Rs 19,000-20,000 after years of dedicated service.
Chief Justice Chandrachud pointed out that these retired judges have substantially contributed to the cause of justice and, at the age of 61-62, they cannot suddenly jump into private practice and go to the high court. He urged the Attorney General, who was representing the Union, to come up with a “just solution” for the retired judicial officers who are facing financial setbacks due to the disproportionate pension policy.
The Chief Justice also mentioned that some High Court judges were not being paid a pension after retirement and requested the Attorney General to look into this matter as well.
Importance of Pension for Retired Judges
The issue of pension for retired judges is crucial for ensuring their financial well-being and maintaining the independence of the judiciary. Adequate pension is necessary to support retired judges who have dedicated their lives to the cause of justice and may not have the option to pursue other careers after retirement.
Steps Taken by the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has previously issued directions relating to the pay and service conditions of judges, accepting the recommendations of the Second National Judicial Pay Commission. Last month, the court directed the states to clear the arrears as per the enhanced pay scale recommended by the commission and asked the high courts to constitute committees to oversee the implementation.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the inadequate pension being provided to retired district judges and has urged the Union to find a just solution to this issue. The financial well-being of retired judges is crucial for their livelihood and the maintenance of judicial independence. The court has taken steps to address this issue by issuing directions for the implementation of enhanced pay scales and the clearance of arrears.
If govt makes these jobs like District and Session Judge without pension, still lots if people will come forward to work on these positions
Pension is a democratic rights. You have served for people throughout your life and govt must ensure your safety.. otherwise judges will be influenced by political parties because a judge will want to ensure his future through political backing of they don’t have pension. Pension should be started all over India