SC stays release of IAF officer with role in Op Sindoor

Wing Commander Niketa Pandey sought a stay on release from IAF till the special selection board considers case for permanent commission

- Abraham Thomas

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the release of a woman short service commission (SSC) officer of the Indian Air Force who was part of Operation Sindoor, observing that the uncertainty among officers of the armed forces on whether they will be absorbed after 10 years of service is not good and should be remedied by bringing suitable policy.

The court was considering the plea of Wing Commander Niketa Pandey, who entered the force through SSC in 2011 and on merit, got an extension till June 19, 2025 on completion of 10 years of service. Having played a crucial role in the recent Operation Sindoor and Operation Balakot, Pandey sought a stay on her release from IAF till the special selection board considers her case for permanent commission.

Pandey is the first SSC officer from the IAF to get stay on her release. Earlier, on May 9, the top court passed similar orders staying the release of over 50 Army women SSC officers who were to be considered for permanent commission.