The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre and the Chiefs of the three Armed Forces to respond to the situation of cadets who have suffered disabilities due to injuries or accidents during military training. The court emphasised that "brave people are needed in the military" and said that these cadets should receive proper benefits.

A bench of Justices BV Nagarathana and R Mahadevan described the situation as "unfortunate" and noted that even if the cadets do not receive ex-serviceman status, measures should still be taken to ensure their rehabilitation.

Justice Nagarathana said, "If there is group insurance for the cadets, even the department will not be burdened. It will be on the insurer. See, the risk is very high. We want brave people to come into the military. But if they are not given adequate benefits, they will get disheartened."

The bench also suggested that the Centre and the Armed Forces consider whether these cadets can return to service in a suitable capacity. "Having regard to their disability. Maybe a desk job, not on the field," Justice Nagarathana said.

Terming the issue as a matter of "social justice", she added, "We need to make sure they are provided for and rehabilitated."

The top court issued notices to the Union of India, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Finance, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Force Staff, and the Ministry of Social Justice.

At the start of the hearing, the court enquired whether there was any insurance scheme for trainee cadets and was informed that none currently exists. The Supreme Court then sought responses on whether injured cadets could be reassessed after completing treatment and if they could be given suitable training for rehabilitation.

The court also suggested that the rights of such candidates under the Disabilities Act should be examined by the respondents.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhatti said she would discuss the matter with the concerned authorities and revert. Meanwhile, the lawyers representing the cadets were asked to submit their written suggestions. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 4.

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