December 05, 2007 (DefenceIndia News Service)

Alarmed over the soaring rate of suicides and attrition in the armed forces, the government on Monday night promised to address the grievances of the jawans and admitted that their pay packet had to be made attractive.

While concluding a brief discussion on Armed Forces Tribunal Bill, which was later passed in the Rajya Sabha, Defence Minister A K Antony said "It will go a long way in reducing court cases".

Elaborating on the committee set up, Defence Minister said that the tribunal will be "independent" and have benches in all major regions of the country in the near future and the government can appoint judicial members in the body.

Further Defence Minister said the tribunal would address the "genuine grievances" of the armed forces and at the same time ensure that discipline in the defence services in not tinkered with.

"There has to be a balance," he said, promising more amendments in the future incorporating various suggestions from the members.

Besides, the Defence Minister said senior officers would be asked to look after the jawans, increase their leave facilities and try to improve the living conditions in barracks or wherever they stay.

In a sincere admittance, Antony said the pay packet of armed forces as compared to other services was not attractive and hoped the Sixth Pay Commission will keep this in mind.

The Bill provides for adjudication or trial by Armed Forces Tribunal of disputes and complaints with respect to commission, appointments, enrolment and conditions of service in the Army, Navy and the Air Force.

(Zee News)