File affidavit on women in army: SC

The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Army to file an affidavit stating the instructions that debarred women officers from getting permanent commission in the armed forces was a notification under the Army Act.

The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Army to file an affidavit stating the instructions that debarred women officers from getting permanent commission in the armed forces was a notification under the Army Act.

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The government has been given time till July 30 to produce the notification. The direction came after additional solicitor general failed to convince the bench they had brought out a notification and that the Delhi High Court had not set it aside.

The court felt the government submissions should have been raised at the preliminary stage before the HC directed permanent commission to women in some wings of the Army.

Additional Solicitor General Parag Tripathi, appearing for the force, submitted that Army rules did not permit women in the force. And, that it could be done through a notification, laying down rules and regulations for the women. The rules also say there would be no permanent commission for short service commission women officers.

In a meeting at L.K. Advani’s residence, the Opposition NDA decided on Monday to exert pressure on the government to accept permanent commission for women in the defence services.