Summary: Pramod Kumar, a former BSF soldier, wins his case for a disability pension due to Bipolar Disorder and Varicose Veins, worsened by his military service.
On December 4, 2025, the High Court of Delhi at New Delhi, with Justices C. Hari Shankar and Om Prakash Shukla, decided in favor of Pramod Kumar. He had been fighting to get his deserved disability pension after being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Varicose Veins.
The Review Medical Board (RMB), on May 8, 2024, confirmed that Pramod Kumar had Bipolar Disorder and Varicose Veins, leading to a 43% permanent disability. The board noted:
"The disability was made worse by the stress and strain of military service."
Even though the RMB's findings supported Pramod Kumar, his claim was challenged by the Union of India & Others. However, the court stressed that the Central Civil Services (Extraordinary Pension) Rules, 2023, back up Kumar's case:
"The disability should be considered as caused by the Government service if it is confirmed that it was made worse by it."
The court declared that Pramod Kumar should receive the disability pension starting from May 31, 2024, the date he was released from service. The Union of India & Others were told to pay the pension within four weeks, or they would have to pay an extra 12% yearly interest.
Besides the pension, the court awarded Pramod Kumar ₹25,000 for the unnecessary legal troubles he went through.
Justice C. Hari Shankar expressed disappointment at the time wasted in court, saying:
"Court time should not be spent on such unnecessary cases."
This judgment not only ensures Pramod Kumar's financial security but also sets an example for similar cases, reinforcing the rights of military personnel to receive the benefits they deserve.
