Image credits - Hindustan Times
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued a significant ruling regarding pension benefits for retired employees, clarifying that the additional 20% pension entitlement begins when an individual enters their 80th year of life, rather than upon completing 80 years of age. This decision was made by a single-judge bench led by Justice Anand Pathak.
The case at hand involved Dr. KK Kaul, a retired Dean of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College, Jabalpur. Dr. Kaul, who retired on June 30, 1991, had been receiving pension benefits under the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1976. He challenged the state’s position, arguing that he was entitled to the additional pension from October 13, 2011—the date he turned 79 and entered his 80th year—rather than from his 80th birthday.
Justice Pathak’s ruling addressed the state’s interpretation that the additional pension benefits for the 80-85 age group should only commence upon the completion of 80 years. The Court disagreed, stating that such an interpretation would create an unreasonable and irrational situation, leaving certain periods without benefit and undermining the intent of the pension scheme designed to aid elderly retirees.
In its ruling, the High Court instructed the respondent authorities to promptly address Dr. Kaul’s representation and ensure that the additional pension benefits are disbursed in accordance with the Court’s order. The Court emphasized the need for an expeditious resolution to honor Dr. Kaul’s service.
Advocate Aditya Sanghi represented Dr. Kaul, while Government Advocate Lokesh Jain appeared for the state. The Court’s decision reaffirms the right of retired employees to receive additional pension benefits starting from the onset of their 80th year, enhancing the clarity and fairness of pension entitlements.