The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) helps solve service-related issues of army, navy, and air force personnel. Applicants must submit proper documents to ensure their case is heard smoothly. A well-prepared file can reduce delays and improve the chances of a fair judgment. This article gives a complete list of documents required for AFT cases, in simple and clear language.
Table of Contents
Basic Documents for All AFT Cases
Applicants must provide the following basic documents in every Armed Forces Tribunal case:
- Application Form:
Properly filled and signed original application form. - Affidavit:
Notarized affidavit in support of the case. - Index of Documents:
A list showing all the enclosed documents in order. - Vakalatnama/Power of Attorney:
If an advocate is representing the applicant. - Identity Proof:
Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or any government-issued ID. - Address Proof:
Copy of voter ID, driving license, or utility bill.
Service-Related Documents
Proper records related to service in the armed forces are needed:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Book/Record of Service | Complete record showing service duration and duties. |
| Discharge Certificate | Issued at the time of retirement or release. |
| Posting and Transfer Orders | Orders showing location and nature of postings. |
| Promotion Orders | Documents showing promotion history. |
| Punishment Orders (if any) | Details of disciplinary actions taken. |
| Leave Records | Details of sanctioned and availed leaves. |
| Medical Records | Medical board proceedings and health reports, especially in disability cases. |
| Copy of PPO (Pension Payment Order) | Essential for pension-related cases. |
Documents for Disability Pension Cases
These cases need specific medical and service-related evidence:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Disability Certificate | Issued by the Medical Board or concerned authority. |
| Medical Board Proceedings (AFMSF-15) | Final medical report form used for disability cases. |
| Medical Category Reports | Copies of all medical category changes. |
| Release Medical Board Report | Issued at the time of retirement or discharge. |
| Relevant Specialist Reports | From government or service hospitals. |
Documents for Family Pension Cases
Family members applying for a pension must submit extra documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Death Certificate | Certified copy issued by a competent authority. |
| Relationship Certificate | Proof of relation with the deceased (spouse, child, parent). |
| Copy of PPO of Deceased | Pension document of the deceased soldier. |
| Service Record of Deceased | Full record of the service person. |
| Nomination Details | For spouses claiming the pension. |
| Marriage Certificate | For spouses claiming pension. |
| Birth Certificate of Children | If children are claimants. |
Documents for Reinstatement or Service Benefit Cases
Applicants seeking reinstatement or financial dues should provide:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Termination/Dismissal Orders | Copy of the termination or dismissal order. |
| Appeal and Reply Copies | If any appeal was made against the action taken. |
| Pay Slips/Salary Details | Latest pay records before dismissal or retirement. |
| Arrears Calculation Sheet | If seeking payment of dues. |
| Court/Tribunal Orders (if any) | Any earlier related judgment or direction. |
Legal and Supporting Documents
Strong legal backup is essential for success in tribunal cases:
- Legal Grounds or Brief Synopsis:
Summary of issues, facts, and reasons for filing the case. - Copies of Correspondence:
Letters, emails, or applications sent to departments. - RTI Replies:
If any information was received through the Right to Information Act. - Earlier Representations:
Written complaints or requests made to higher authorities. - Orders from Competent Authorities:
Relevant government or department orders that affect the case.
Documents for Air Force and Navy Personnel
Certain special documents may be required based on the service branch:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| IAF/Navy Service Record | Official record as per Air Force or Navy format. |
| Ship/Flight Duty Logs | In some cases, logs showing active duties may be relevant. |
| Flying/Sea Time Records | Useful in benefit or injury-related matters. |
| Board of Inquiry Reports | Official record as per Air Force or navy format. |
Court Fee and Miscellaneous Requirements
- Court Fee:
Payment by Demand Draft as per AFT rules, usually drawn in favour of the Registrar of the AFT. - Set of Copies:
Usually 3 to 5 sets of the full application with documents. - Envelope with Address:
For return communication. - Soft Copy (if required):
Some benches may ask for a PDF copy on a pen drive or by email.
Important Notes
- All documents must be self-attested.
- True copies of originals should be submitted.
- The English translation must be provided for regional language documents.
- Proper pagination and file indexing help in quick review.
- Case-specific documents may also be required, based on the issue.
A carefully prepared set of documents ensures smooth proceedings in the Armed Forces Tribunal. Proper service records, medical papers, and legal files give the tribunal a full picture of the case. With organized and complete documentation, applicants can expect a faster and fairer resolution to their problems.
