The Delhi High Court rejected a plea to raise the retirement age of doctors and medical officers in GREF and BRO from 60 to 65 years. The court stated that determining retirement age falls under the executive’s jurisdiction and is not a matter for judicial intervention. This decision denied these doctors parity with counterparts in other Central government organizations.
The plea, filed by Dr. R.D. Thakur, challenged the Ministry of Defence’s rejection of extending the retirement age. The petitioner’s counsel argued that doctors in most Central government bodies retire at 65, emphasizing equality. However, the Centre defended its stance, citing operational necessities in remote and high-altitude areas where GREF/BRO projects are located.
The court highlighted that the executive’s decision-making process should be respected and not interfered with by the judiciary. It noted that altering retirement age could impact operational efficiency and promotional opportunities for younger medical officers. Ultimately, the Delhi High Court dismissed the petition, citing statutory rules governing retirement age.
