Can a Lieutenant Take Voluntary Retirement Due to Family Issues?
The question of whether a lieutenant can take voluntary retirement due to family issues is a complex one. While there are cases where such retirements have been granted, the process is highly regulated and typically stringent. Let's explore the nuances of this issue in the context of the Indian Army.
Understanding the Current System
In the Indian Army, the process for a lieutenant taking voluntary retirement is influenced by several factors. The traditional ranks and careers within the system have specific timelines and roles that can often make such a decision challenging.
An army lieutenant typically has 0-2 years of service, and a navy lieutenant 2-6 years of service. The phrase 'some years of service' used in the question can sometimes be misleading, as the specific timeframe is generally defined within these broader categories.
Case for Voluntary Retirement
While the idea of a lieutenant voluntarily retiring due to family issues seems improbable in the standard course, there are indeed instances where such retirements have been granted. This often depends on 'extreme compassionate grounds' that the President deems appropriate.
For example, in 1986, one of the author's coursemates from the National Defense Academy (NDA) was released as a sublieutenant. This decision was made due to extreme family circumstances: the coursemate's elder and younger brothers, both in the Army, died within weeks of each other—one in the 1971 war, and the other in a training accident. The parents requested that their only surviving son be released, and the President agreed to approve this release.
Reasons Against Voluntary Retirement
In normal circumstances, an officer is promoted to the rank of captain within two years, often with even smaller units being antedated and promoted within days. A lieutenant serving for years beyond the promotion period is seen as a cause for concern. Additionally, the government often provides extensive training and enters into contract agreements with officers for periods of 10 or 20 years, depending on their commission type (PC/SSC).
Nonetheless, officers do ask for release based on various grounds. Some cases are indeed approved. The author himself was released after 11.5 years, and many of his NDA coursemates quit before completing 10 years. An instance where someone was released with about 6-7 years of service is also known, though such cases are rare.
Conclusion and Advice
Voluntary retirement for a lieutenant due to family issues is a highly nuanced and infrequent occurrence. While it is not impossible, the typical approach is to continue serving for a few more years. This advice comes from personal experience, as the author was advised to continue for 20 more years when putting in his application. These cases are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and strong and compelling reasons can sometimes lead to an approval.
As the Indian Army has a strict system of service and promotion, it is essential to understand and respect these regulations. However, if your situation is truly compelling, it may be worth pursuing a release on compassionate grounds.
Final Thoughts
While it may seem like a long and impossible path, there are always exceptions and opportunities. Just like the author's personal experience, it is possible to be granted release, even after serving multiple years.
May you find the support and guidance you need through this journey.
References
References to relevant army policies and personal testimonies will be crucial in providing a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Additionally, interviews with veterans or current military personnel can offer valuable insights.