STATE OF MAHARASHTRA vs NAMDEO ETC.ETC.

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision to grant freedom fighter's pension to the respondents under the Freedom Fighters Pension Scheme, quashing the State of Maharashtra's rejection of their claims. The Court emphasized that the petitioners, having participated in the freedom movement, are entitled to benefits from the date of their first application. The judgment mandates the State to commence pension payments within three months and settle arrears within six months, reinforcing the legal principle that entitlements under government schemes must be honored when eligibility is established.