Supreme Court Orders Centre to Frame Welfare Scheme for Outboarded Military Cadets

• The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to formulate a comprehensive welfare scheme for outboarded military cadets who have suffered disabilities during training.
• The Court has also directed the respondent departments to revisit the recommendations of the Sabharwal Committee and evolve realistic benefits for outboarded cadets.
• States and Union Territories are expected to consider extending reservation benefits to outboarded cadets under the quota meant for ex-military personnel.

We expect that certain favorable recommendations would be emanating from the respondent-departments in this regard

The Supreme Court has issued a stern directive to the Centre to formulate a comprehensive welfare scheme for outboarded military cadets who have suffered disabilities during training. This move is a significant step towards providing relief to these cadets, many of whom are left without adequate statutory protection despite their sacrifices. The Court's order comes on the heels of a hearing where it was brought to light that outboarded cadets with benchmark disability below 40% do not fall under the purview of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This has led to a lacuna in their rights and benefits, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. The Court's emphasis on framing a welfare scheme for these cadets is a welcome development, as it acknowledges the need for a more nuanced approach towards their rehabilitation.

The Supreme Court has also directed the respondent departments to revisit the recommendations of the Sabharwal Committee, which had suggested various welfare measures for outboarded cadets. The Court's order is a clear indication that it expects the Centre to take concrete steps towards implementing these recommendations. However, the Court has clarified that its primary focus is on evolving realistic benefits for outboarded cadets, rather than granting them the status of ex-servicemen. This distinction is crucial, as it highlights the need for a tailored approach towards their rehabilitation.

The Supreme Court has also suggested that States and Union Territories consider extending reservation benefits to outboarded cadets under the quota meant for ex-military personnel. This move is expected to significantly improve their employment prospects, as it would provide them with a level playing field in the job market. The Court's emphasis on this aspect is particularly noteworthy, given the disparities in ex gratia payments made to different categories of trainees. It has also appreciated those States and Union Territories that have already treated outboarded cadets as ex-servicemen for employment purposes.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for the Centre's response to the Supreme Court's order, including any new welfare measures or ex gratia payment enhancements that may be implemented, which could impact their clients' employment prospects and benefits.

Source: Original reporting via Supreme Court Asks Centre To Frame Welfare Scheme For Cadets Outboarded Due To Training Disabilities