New Delhi: The Supreme Court has made it clear that Indian Air Force personnel do not have an unrestricted right to leave their jobs whenever they want. The court ruled that serving members must follow the Indian Air Force’s service rules, including obtaining prior permission before applying for or joining a civilian job. The judgment highlights that military discipline and national security are more important than personal convenience.
Indian Air Force Resignation Ruling: What Did the Supreme Court Say
A Bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Atul S. Chandurkar held that Air Force personnel cannot resign or leave service at their own will. The court said the requirement to obtain prior permission is not just a formality. It is a mandatory rule designed to maintain discipline and ensure the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
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Indian Air Force Resignation Ruling: Why Is Prior Permission Necessary
According to the Supreme Court, members of the Air Force serve in a disciplined force where every trained individual plays an important role. The judges observed that allowing personnel to leave without following service rules could affect manpower, military preparedness, and the country’s defence capabilities. Therefore, Air Force regulations must be strictly followed.
Background of the Case
The case involved Nakhat Singh, a Corporal in the Indian Air Force. After completing seven years of service, he applied for the post of Assistant Professor (Hindi) through the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC). Although he cleared the recruitment process, his request for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and discharge from service was rejected by Air Force authorities. He challenged the decision, but the Supreme Court dismissed his appeal.
What Rules Did the Court Rely On
The court referred to the Air Force service rules and the applicable Air Force Orders governing civilian employment applications. It said an Airman must first obtain permission from the competent authority before applying for a civil post. Even after selection, discharge from service depends on approval from the authorised Air Force officials. The judges stated that these rules are binding and cannot be ignored.
Why Indian Air Force Resignation Ruling Matters
The ruling reinforces that members of the armed forces have special service obligations. The Supreme Court said military service is different from civilian employment because maintaining discipline, operational strength, and national security is essential. The decision also follows earlier Supreme Court rulings that Air Force personnel do not have an unrestricted right to leave service during their period of engagement.
