Supreme Court Orders IAF To Reinstate War Widow Priyanka Saxena As Squadron Leader After Prior Service

On September 25, the Supreme Court ruled that the Indian Air Force must re-instate Priyanka Saxena, a war widow and former Short Service Commissioned officer, as a Squadron Leader. Saxena served for 10 years before leaving the force in 2013 due to family commitments.

The High Court's Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, invoked Article 142 of the Constitution to order her reinstatement, noting that she was eligible due to her past service and being the widow of an Air Force officer. The Court emphasized that her case was unique and would not set a precedent for others.

Saxena qualified for reinstatement as both a former Air Force officer and a war widow, making her eligible without needing to undergo further training. The Court highlighted a policy gap, stating that women officers like Saxena, who leave service and later become widows, were not covered by existing policies.

After completing a year of refresher training, Saxena will be reinstated as a Squadron Leader, with her prior service recognized and extended. Her seniority will be determined by her current peer group, and she will be considered for Permanent Commission and promotions as per the applicable policy.