Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 7: In a move that could pave the way for greater gender inclusivity in India’s armed forces, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued a notice to the central government in response to a petition seeking the inclusion of women candidates through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination.

The plea, filed by petitioner Kush Kalra, argued that preventing women from joining the armed forces through CDS amounts to a violation of their fundamental rights, particularly the right to freely practise any profession as guaranteed under the Indian Constitution.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela heard the petition and directed the Centre to file its response.

The petition strongly highlighted the case of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who gained nationwide recognition for her leadership during Operation Sindoor. “If women are denied entry through CDS, the country risks losing out on capable and committed officers like Col Sofiya Qureshi,” the plea stated.

Kalra further submitted that a permanent commission in the armed forces is one of the most respected and challenging professions in India, and barring women from pursuing this path is discriminatory and unconstitutional.

The court’s intervention is expected to bring renewed focus to the broader debate on equal opportunities for women in defence services. The matter has now been listed for further hearing.