The recent decision by the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to allow 19 judicial officers to serve beyond the retirement age is being hailed in some quarters as a move towards continuity and experience. But beneath the surface lies a troubling question: at what cost?
In a region grappling with soaring youth unemployment, where lakhs of educated young men and women are desperately seeking opportunities, the continuation of aging officers past 50, 55, and even 58 smacks of systemic stagnation.
How can we speak of progress and reform when we refuse to make space for the next generation? While competence and experience are valuable, they should not become a shield to block fresh energy, new ideas, and deserving talent. The judiciary and all government services must not become retirement havens for a select few.
What message are we sending to the youth of Jammu & Kashmir? That degrees, dreams, and dedication mean nothing in the face of bureaucratic recycling?
Instead of rewarding longevity, the system should reward merit and open the doors to young legal professionals who are waiting — often hopelessly — for their turn to serve. It is time to rethink policies that extend service tenures while young talent is pushed to the sidelines.
Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be fair — not just in the courtroom, but also in public employment and opportunity.
