Delhi HC: Childless Widow Gets Family Pension After Remarriage

• The Delhi High Court ruled that a childless widow of a deceased central government employee will continue to receive family pension even after remarriage, provided she lacks sufficient independent income.
• The court upheld Rule 54 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, and an office memorandum, stating they are neither arbitrary nor discriminatory.
• The ruling emphasizes the social welfare policy behind the provision, aiming to provide financial security to widows and encourage their social rehabilitation through remarriage.
• The case involved parents of a deceased CRPF soldier who challenged the widow's continued pension after her remarriage, arguing they, as dependents, should receive it.
• The High Court clarified that family pension is a statutory social security benefit with a clear order of priority, and parents are eligible only if there is no eligible widow or children.

Why It Matters: Childless widows of central government employees retain family pension post-remarriage if they lack independent income.