Delhi High Court Upholds Validity of Rule Permitting Family Pension to Childless Widow

The Delhi High Court upheld the constitutional validity of Rule 54 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, which allows a childless widow to continue receiving family pension even after remarriage, subject to income conditions.

The petition was filed by the parents of a deceased CRPF personnel seeking the grant of family pension after the remarriage of their son’s widow.

The Court held that the Rule reflects a legitimate policy to provide financial security to widows and encourage remarriage. It observed that parents are Category-II beneficiaries and are not entitled to family pension when an eligible widow exists.

The Court dismissed the petition.

[Smt. Lakshmi Devi & Anr. v. UOI & Ors.]