The Supreme Court recently addressed a long-standing power struggle between officers of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS). Justice BR Gavai, while hearing a forest protection matter, voiced his concerns over the perceived supremacy of IAS officers over their IPS and IFS counterparts.

During the proceedings, Justice Gavai made a significant remark:

"In my experience as a government pleader for three years and a judge for twenty-two years, I can tell you IAS officers want to show their supremacy over IPS and IFS officers... there is always a conflict... there is always heartburning amongst the IPS and IFS as to why, though they are part of the same setup, the IAS should treat them as superiors."

This statement was directed toward Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing the Union. Justice Gavai's comments shed light on the dissatisfaction among IPS and IFS officers regarding their treatment within the administrative framework.

Read Also:- Supreme Court Rebukes Punjab Government for Reneging on Pension Scheme Commitment

The bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih, was hearing applications related to the T.N. Godavarman case—a critical forest protection matter. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appeared before the court and requested an adjournment on certain applications, citing his engagement in another case. He requested that the hearing be scheduled after the Holi break.

Expressing the government's commitment to resolving the issue, Mehta stated:

"We will sit together in the meanwhile... the government is really concerned... I will again sit with him (Amicus K Parmeswar), and we will find a way out so that the ultimate object is achieved... a way needs to be found."

Justice Gavai acknowledged this but also emphasized the need to resolve the ongoing conflict between IAS and IPS officers. When Mehta claimed that no such dispute existed, Justice Gavai disagreed, basing his view on his personal experience in government service.

Read Also:- Supreme Court Orders Fresh Review of BCI Decision on Legal Misconduct Case

In response to Justice Gavai’s remarks, Solicitor General Mehta assured the court that efforts would be made to correct the perception of IAS dominance. The case has been scheduled for further hearing in April 2025.

The matter underscores a crucial aspect of Indian bureaucracy—inter-service conflicts that impact governance and decision-making. The Supreme Court's recognition of this issue may pave the way for administrative reforms that ensure equality and fairness across various services.

Case Title: IN RE: T.N. GODAVARMAN THIRUMULPAD Versus UNION OF INDIA AND ORS., W.P.(C) No. 202/1995