The Armed Forces Tribunal deals with specified service matters and court-martial appeals concerning persons subject to the Army, Navy and Air Force Acts. The Kolkata Regional Bench covers West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Main legal questions
- Whether the dispute falls within AFT service jurisdiction
- Statutory complaint or representation requirements
- Limitation and delay
- Pension, disability, promotion, discharge or court-martial issue
- Need for interim protection
Documents to collect
- Enrolment, commission and service records
- Impugned order and statutory complaint
- Medical board or pension papers
- Court-martial record where applicable
- Representations and delivery proof
Practical response
- Verify AFT subject and territorial jurisdiction
- Complete prescribed service remedies
- Obtain the complete military record
- Calculate limitation carefully
- Frame relief within the Tribunal’s statutory power
Forum selection
AFT is distinct from CAT and WBAT. Its official jurisdiction page lists the Kolkata Bench’s territorial coverage and the Act defines service and court-martial jurisdiction. Further constitutional or appellate routes depend on the order and statute.
Frequently asked questions
Does CAT hear Army, Navy or Air Force service disputes?
Specified armed-forces matters follow the AFT framework, not ordinary CAT jurisdiction.
Can veterans file pension matters?
Many covered service disputes include pension questions, subject to jurisdiction and limitation.
Does AFT handle civilian defence employees?
Civilian employees may follow CAT or another route; employment status must be checked.
Official references: AFT official jurisdiction; AFT Act and Rules.
Related resources
Important: General information only. Current statutes, rules, employee status, contract and limitation require specific review.
