SC intervenes in Coast Guard Age Row, directs Expert Panel to reconsider Service Framework

The Supreme Court put on hold a Delhi High Court ruling that had struck down the Indian Coast Guard’s rank-based retirement policy, and directed the Union Government to consider setting up an expert panel to re-examine the force’s recruitment and superannuation framework. The interim order ensures that the existing retirement structure, 57 years for Commandants and below, and 60 years for higher ranks, continues for now, pending further review.

A Bench led by CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing the Centre’s appeal against the High Court decision which had invalidated Rules 20(1) and 20(2) of the Coast Guard (General) Rules, 1986 on the ground that they violated equality principles under Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution. The High Court had held that prescribing different retirement ages solely on the basis of rank did not withstand constitutional scrutiny.

Appearing for the Union, ASG Archana Pathak Dave argued that the ruling could trigger widespread challenges across uniformed services, potentially unsettling established service structures in other defence and paramilitary forces.

Taking note of the broader implications, the Apex Court issued notice and stayed the operation of the High Court’s judgment. The Bench observed, “We direct the Union to consider constituting an expert committee to revisit the conditions of service of the Coast Guard Personnel, especially with respect to the age of recruitment to the age of retirement, and submit a report to this court.”

The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 13.