SC Criticizes Centre for Withholding Permanent Commission from Women in ICG

The Supreme Court reprimanded the Indian Coast Guard for denying permanent commissions to women officers. The court emphasized fair treatment and urged the Coast Guard to adopt gender-neutral policies. This comes in response to a plea by officer Priyanka Tyagi, highlighting the need for equality in maritime forces.

Image Source -www.etvbharat.com

The Supreme Court of India recently issued a stern rebuke to the central government over its failure to grant permanent commissions to women serving in the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The court's criticism came in response to a plea filed by woman officer Priyanka Tyagi, who sought permanent commission eligibility for female short-service commission officers within the ICG.

During the proceedings, the bench, comprising Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the denial of permanent commission to women officers in the maritime force. The court emphasized the importance of fairness and equality, particularly in a sector that symbolizes strength and resilience.

Addressing the Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee, who represented the ICG, the bench questioned the patriarchal mindset behind the reluctance to include women in the Coast Guard's permanent commission framework. It challenged the government's rhetoric of 'Nari Shakti' (woman power) juxtaposed against its failure to ensure equal opportunities for women within the maritime force.

The court highlighted the case of Priyanka Tyagi as emblematic of the broader issue, questioning why her application for permanent commission had been overlooked. It demanded transparency and accountability from the ICG in its policies regarding women officers.

Furthermore, the bench instructed the government to study previous judgments that had granted permanent commissions to women officers in the country's other defense services. This directive underscored the court's commitment to upholding gender equality across all branches of the armed forces.

Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Is Set To Initiate Numerous Development Endeavors From Jammu

The court also scrutinized the existing provisions within the ICG, particularly the limitation of granting only 10% permanent commissions to women officers. It challenged the rationale behind such limitations, questioning whether women were considered lesser beings deserving of fewer opportunities within the force.

Drawing a comparison with the Indian Navy, which has adopted a more inclusive approach towards women officers, the court urged the government to formulate a gender-neutral policy applicable to all branches of the armed forces, including the Coast Guard. This call for systemic change reflects the court's commitment to promoting gender equality and fairness within India's defense establishments.

Overall, the Supreme Court's rebuke serves as a clarion call for reform within the Indian Coast Guard, emphasizing the need for policies that recognize and support the contributions of women officers in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.