Supreme Court orders constitution of committee in all High Courts for implementation of judicial pay commission

Observing that there is a need to maintain uniformity in service conditions of judicial officers across the country, the Supreme Court has directed the constitution of a two-judge committee in each high court for overseeing the implementation of the orders on pay, pension and other retirement benefits for judicial officers as per the Second National Judicial Pay Commission (SNJPC.)

Observing that there is a need to maintain uniformity in service conditions of judicial officers across the country, the Supreme Court has directed the constitution of a two-judge committee in each high court for overseeing the implementation of the orders on pay, pension and other retirement benefits for judicial officers as per the Second National Judicial Pay Commission (SNJPC.)

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D. Y. Chandrachud said Judicial independence, which is necessary to preserve the faith and confidence of common citizens in the rule of law, can be ensured and enhanced only so long as judges are able to lead their life with a sense of financial dignity.

"The conditions of service while a judge is in service must ensure a dignified existence. The post-retirement conditions of service have a crucial bearing on the dignity and independence of the office of a judge and how it is perceived by society. If the service of the judiciary is to be a viable career option so as to attract talent, conditions of service, both for working and retired officers, must offer security and dignity," the Bench, also comprising Justice J. B. Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said.

The top court said it is a matter of grave concern that though officers in other services have availed of a revision of their conditions of service as far back as January 1, 2016, similar issues pertaining to judicial officers are still awaiting a final decision eight years thereafter.

It said judges have retired from service and the family pensioners of those who have passed away are awaiting resolution as well.

The SNJPC recommendations cover pay structure, pension and family pension and allowances, besides dealing with the issue of establishing a permanent mechanism to determine subjects of service conditions of the district judiciary.