New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal to raise the retirement age of District Judiciary officers from 60 to 62 years, subject to a suitability and performance assessment at the age of 60.
The issue came up in All India Judges’ Association v. Union of India, after the Supreme Court’s July 13, 2026 interim order considered whether judicial officers could continue beyond 60.
The Court later clarified that such an extension would apply only where the concerned State Government and High Court supported an increase in the retirement age.
At the earlier hearing, Rajasthan told the Court that the retirement age for both State employees and District Judiciary officers was 60, with no proposal to increase it. Several other States also opposed a general extension.
The Court therefore sought affidavits from all States and High Courts setting out their respective positions on record before taking a pan-India view of the issue.
7 States Directed To Implement 62-Year Limit
The Court has directed Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal to amend their service rules to raise the superannuation age to 62.
However, officers reaching 60 will be required to undergo a suitability and performance assessment by the concerned High Court before continuing in service.
Rajasthan Yet to Take Final Call
The State-wise chart records Rajasthan’s position as: “The State will reconsider the matter in light of the orders of this Court.”
Rajasthan has therefore been directed to reconsider the enhancement of the retirement age and submit a compliance report.
SC Highlights Judicial Vacancies
The Court observed that sanctioned judicial strength has increased over the years, yet several posts remain vacant due to the shortage of eligible candidates.
The court also emphasised that judicial officers form a specialised cadre, distinct from ordinary State employees, and that their service conditions fall within the constitutional framework governing the High Courts.
Enhancement within 2 months
The States that have already agreed to the enhancement have been asked to amend their rules, preferably within two months.
The matter will next be considered on October 1, 2026.