The Supreme Court of India has stayed a decision of the Delhi High Court that had enhanced the retirement age of all personnel in the Indian Coast Guard to 60 years. The interim order was passed while hearing an appeal filed by the Union Government challenging the High Court’s ruling.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued notice in the matter and directed that the High Court judgment will remain in abeyance for now. At the same time, the Court asked the Centre to constitute an expert body to undertake a comprehensive review of service conditions in the Coast Guard, including the question of retirement age. The findings of the proposed panel are to be placed before the Court.
The Union Government argued that the High Court erred in treating Coast Guard personnel on par with other central forces. It submitted that the Coast Guard functions under the Ministry of Defence and operates in challenging maritime environments that require sustained physical fitness and operational readiness. According to the Centre, retirement policies are closely linked to the unique demands of sea service and should be determined through administrative and expert assessment rather than judicial intervention.
The High Court had earlier struck down disparities under Rule 20 of the Coast Guard (General) Rules, 1986, which prescribed different retirement ages depending on rank. Under the existing structure, certain categories of officers were permitted to retire at 60, while others — including lower-ranked officers and enrolled personnel — superannuated earlier. The High Court had directed that the retirement age be uniformly fixed at 60 years for all.
While considering the Union’s appeal, the Supreme Court observed that retirement norms in the Coast Guard appear to be rooted in older policy frameworks. The bench noted that factors such as improved longevity, experience, and evolving operational requirements may warrant a detailed reassessment. However, it emphasised that such an exercise should be carried out by specialists familiar with service realities.
With the High Court order now stayed, the existing retirement framework will continue until further directions are issued. The matter is expected to be taken up again after the expert panel is formed and submits its recommendations.
