Supreme Court Questions Gender-Based Vacancy Allocation in Army's JAG, Grants Relief to Woman Candidate

The Supreme Court reserved its judgment in a writ petition filed by two women challenging the unequal vacancies in the JAG (Indian Army) Entry Scheme 31st Course. 

The petitioners, who secured higher ranks than some selected male candidates, contested the allotment of six vacancies for men and only three for women.

The Court questioned the Army's claim of gender neutrality, stressing that merit should be the only criterion. Justice Manmohan observed, “Gender neutrality means it does not matter from which gender you come.”

Interim relief was granted to the petitioner, directing her induction into the next training course. The Court sought clarification from the other petitioner, who had joined the Navy. Next hearing on July 8, 2025.