Agnipath Recruitment: SC Rejects Two Pleas Against Delhi HC's Decision Upholding Centre's Scheme, To Hear IAF Related Plea

The Supreme Court affirms the validity of the Union Govt's Agnipath scheme for recruitment in armed forces.

The Supreme Court has upheld the validity of the Agnipath scheme of the Union Government, which is used for recruiting personnel in the armed forces. The Court stated that the scheme is not arbitrary and that public interest supersedes other considerations. SC dismissed two appeals that challenged the Delhi High Court's ruling in February.

A bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice PS Narasimha and Justice JB Pardiwala said that individuals who were previously chosen via recruitment procedures such as rallies, physical and medical tests for defence forces prior to the inception of the Agnipath scheme, do not have a vested right to appointment.

"Sorry, we would not like to interfere with the high court verdict. The high court had dealt with all the aspects," the Bench said, while rejecting separate pleas filed by Gopal Krishan and advocate ML Sharma against the high court verdict.

However, the bench has scheduled a hearing on April 17 for a third fresh plea that concerns recruitment in the Indian Air Force (IAF) before the implementation of the Agnipath scheme. 

The Centre has been requested to file its response to this third plea related to IAF recruitment.

In February, the Delhi High Court upheld the validity of the Agnipath scheme, against which two please were submitted to the Apex Court. The High Court stated in its verdict that the Agnipath scheme was created in the national interest and to enhance the capabilities of the armed forces.

What is Agnipath Scheme?

The Agnipath scheme of the Indian Government seeks to induct suitable candidates aged between 17.5 - 21 years, for recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces: Indian Army, Navy, and the Air Force. Selected candidates, would earn the title of Agniveer, and would work in the defence sector for four years. As per the government, not more than 25 percent of the total strength of those recruited will be selected for the permanent cadre.

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