CONFEDERATION OF EX-SERVICEMEN ASSNS. vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court, while adjudicating a Public Interest Litigation under Article 32, recognized the right to full and free medicare for ex-servicemen and their families as a fundamental right under the Constitution. The Court directed the Union of India to ensure that adequate medical facilities are provided to ex-servicemen, including treatment for serious and terminal diseases, irrespective of availability at Military Hospitals. The judgment emphasized the need for the government to take necessary steps to fulfill this obligation, thereby reinforcing the principle of welfare for ex-defence personnel.