Ruling Boosts Morale Amid National Tensions, Says Anuma Acharya
New Delhi, May 10 – The Congress party has lauded the Supreme Court’s interim order directing the Centre not to release Short Service Commission (SSC) women Army officers who are contesting the denial of permanent commission (PC), calling it a morale booster for the country’s women soldiers amid ongoing national tension.Addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters on Akbar Road, Congress leader and retired Wing Commander Anuma Acharya said, “This decision of the Supreme Court is a ray of hope for women officers. It boosts their morale in the current environment and reaffirms our respect for the armed forces.”
Supreme Court Stresses Morale and Merit
On Friday, a Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh took up petitions from 69 women SSC officers challenging their release from service. The court ordered the Centre not to discharge these officers until the next hearing in August.“In the prevailing situation, let’s not bring their morale down. They are brilliant officers. You can use their services elsewhere. This is not the time that they are asked to roam around in the Supreme Court,” said Justice Kant, emphasising the critical role these women play.
Centre’s Policy vs Court’s Relief
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, contended that the policy limiting permanent commission to 250 officers annually was aimed at keeping the Army young. However, the court questioned this rationale, suggesting that experienced women officers provide essential guidance and mental strength to younger troops.Acharya echoed this sentiment, noting, “The Supreme Court has recognised that experienced women officers are vital for mentoring younger personnel. This is an important acknowledgment in today’s situation.”
Women’s Progress in Armed Forces
Acharya highlighted that policy changes since 2006 have opened new doors for women, including entry into the Army through the National Defence Academy (NDA) two and a half years ago. “Looking 30 years ahead, we can envision a woman serving as the Chief of Army Staff,” she said.Senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy, appearing for Colonel Geeta Sharma, also cited Colonel Sofia Qureshi’s achievements. Col Qureshi was among the officers who briefed the media on Operation Sindoor and had earlier approached the court for similar relief. The bench noted that while the legal issue remains separate, such distinctions underscore the value of these officers.
Ongoing Legal Battle for Equal Opportunity
The Supreme Court's 2020 judgment had declared the exclusion of women from command and staff roles indefensible, paving the way for permanent commissions across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. However, implementation has remained contested, leading to continued legal scrutiny and advocacy.Reaffirming her party’s stance, Acharya concluded, “We stand with our armed forces and salute every soldier who upholds the honour of the tricolour.”
