In Brief
The Supreme Court approved the Second National Judicial Pay Commission's recommendations for twenty-one allowances payable to judicial officers and retirees, emphasizing that judicial service requires uniform conditions across India to ensure judicial independence and dignity. The Court rejected States' objections based on financial burden, ruling that maintaining dignified service conditions is a mandatory State obligation. It approved most allowances (including House Building Advance, Children Education Allowance, Medical Allowance, and Transport Allowance) with specified rates effective from 2016. The Court directed constituting a 'Committee for Service Conditions of District Judiciary' in each High Court to institutionalize implementation, redress grievances, and ensure arrears of salary and pension are paid by 29 February 2024.
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