Army officers work hard to serve the nation and protect its citizens. However, sometimes issues related to salary or promotion may arise. When such disputes occur, Army officers have the right to approach the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) for justice. The AFT provides a legal platform where military personnel can raise concerns about pay, promotions, or service-related matters. This article explains in simple steps how an Army officer can file a salary or promotion dispute in the AFT.
Table of Contents
What is AFT (Armed Forces Tribunal)?
Established Body: The Armed Forces Tribunal is a legal body created under the Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007.
Purpose: It deals with disputes and complaints related to service matters of armed forces personnel.
Jurisdiction: Covers matters related to commission, appointments, enrollments, conditions of service, and disciplinary cases.
Headquarters: The main bench is in New Delhi, with regional benches across India.
Eligibility to File a Case in AFT
Serving Personnel: All current Army officers are eligible to approach AFT.
Retired Personnel: Retired officers can also file cases if the issue relates to their service or pension.
Legal Heirs: In case the officer is no longer alive, family members can also approach AFT regarding service-related disputes.
Types of Disputes That Can Be Filed
Salary Discrepancies
Denial of Promotion
Wrongful Demotion
Pension-Related Disputes
Transfer Orders
Termination of Service
Documents Required for Filing a Case
Document Type
Details Required
Service Records
Appointment letter, promotion letters, and other service details
Pay Slips
Copies of pay slips showing salary discrepancies
Promotion Orders
Copies of promotion or denial letters
Correspondence with Authority
Letters or emails sent to senior officers regarding the issue
AFT Application Form
Duly filled application in the prescribed format
Proof of Identity
Aadhar card, service ID, or any valid government ID
Power of Attorney
If a representative or lawyer is filing the case on the officer’s behalf
Steps to File a Salary or Promotion Dispute in AFT
Step 1: Collect All Documents
Collect service records, salary slips, and previous communication related to the issue.
Step 2: Consult a Lawyer
A lawyer who is experienced in military law can help prepare a strong case.
Step 3: Draft the Petition
Prepare the application with details like service number, rank, date of commission, and exact grievance.
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
Attach copies of all relevant documents with the application.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Submit the case to the nearest AFT bench. Applications can be filed physically or through legal counsel.
Step 6: Pay Court Fees
A nominal court fee is required, unless the applicant is exempt due to financial or special grounds.
Step 7: Attend Hearings
Appear during hearings or send a lawyer to represent the case.
AFT Bench Locations Across India
Location
Region Covered
New Delhi
Northern India
Chandigarh
Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh
Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh
Jaipur
Rajasthan
Mumbai
Maharashtra and surrounding states
Kolkata
Eastern India
Chennai
Tamil Nadu, Puducherry
Kochi
Kerala and South-West India
Guwahati
North-Eastern states
Srinagar/Jammu
Jammu & Kashmir
Time Limit for Filing a Case
Standard Time Frame: A case must be filed within six months from the date of a final decision by the concerned authority.
Delay Cases: In special situations, late filing may be accepted with a valid reason.
Court Fees and Exemptions
Fee Type
Details
Application Fee
Usually a nominal amount (Rs. 50 to Rs. 500)
Exemption Cases
Disabled veterans or financially weak officers may be exempt
Mode of Payment
Through a challan, a bank draft, or as specified by the court
Benefits of Filing Through AFT
Speedy Justice: Cases are heard faster than regular civil courts.
Specialized Judges: Judges understand military structure and procedures.
Legal Clarity: Clear judgment helps in the correction of wrong orders.
Right to Appeal: If not satisfied, an appeal can be made to the Supreme Court.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing Documents: Incomplete documents may delay the case.
Late Filing: Filing after the deadline may lead to rejection.
Not Consulting a Lawyer: A well-drafted petition improves chances of success.
Ignoring AFT Rules: Not following the proper format or rules can cause issues.
Useful Tips for Officers
Keep Records Updated: Maintain all service-related documents regularly.
Note Dates: Keep track of promotion boards and pay revisions.
Seek Clarification Early: Raise concerns with authorities before filing a case.
Maintain Professional Conduct: Avoid emotional or angry language in the petition.
Sample Format of Petition
Section
Content
Personal Details
Name, service number, rank, unit, and contact information
Respondent Details
Signature and declaration that the information is true
Facts of the Case
Ministry of Defence or the relevant department
Grounds for Relief
Rules or laws that support the officer’s claim
Relief Sought
What the officer is requesting from the tribunal
Verification
Signature and declaration that information is true
Legal Assistance Options
Armed Forces Legal Branch: Some assistance is available through internal legal cells.
Ex-Servicemen Associations: Support and advice may be provided.
Private Lawyers: Legal professionals with experience in AFT cases can be hired.
Final Thoughts
Filing a dispute in the Armed Forces Tribunal is a legal right for every Army officer. Whether it is a delay in promotion or an error in salary, the AFT offers a proper channel for resolution. A well-prepared application, supported by complete documents and timely action, increases the chances of a favorable outcome. Officers are advised to remain calm, professional, and follow the due process to get justice.
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