In Brief
The Supreme Court ruled that women officers commissioned under the Short Service Commission scheme in the Navy were entitled to be considered for Permanent Commission on equal terms with male officers. The Court held that while the Armed Forces' interest in discipline and preparedness is important, it must be balanced against the fundamental rights of officers. The Navy's advertisement promised consideration for PC based on merit, creating a legitimate expectation. The subsequent policy denying women officers such consideration lacked proper legal backing and violated principles of equal treatment. The Court directed compliance within three months, effectively allowing the appeals and overturning restrictions on women officers' eligibility for permanent positions."
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