Source: ET
Context: The Ministry of Defence notified subordinate rules under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023, making the Act fully operational.
Summary of Newly Notified Rules:
- These rules, framed under Section 11 of the Act, provide a structured operational framework for ISOs.
- They empower ISO heads to exercise full administrative and disciplinary authority over service members from any branch.
- Rules establish command succession in case of the absence of the designated officer and prevent overlapping disciplinary proceedings.
- They ensure operational synergy across tri-service commands without altering individual service laws.
About Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023:
- Came into Force: May 10, 2024, after receiving Presidential assent on August 15, 2023, and Parliament passage during the 2023 Monsoon Session.
- Objective:
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- To unify command and promote functional efficiency across inter-services establishments such as Andaman & Nicobar Command, National Defence Academy, and Defence Space Agency.
- Key Features of the Act:
- Empowering ISO Leadership:
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- Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command can now exercise disciplinary and administrative control over all personnel under their ISO, regardless of whether they belong to the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- Promotes quick decision-making and a clear chain of command.
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- Tri-Service Integration:
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- Recognises existing ISOs and provides a legal framework for forming new Joint Services Commands.
- Encourages jointness in planning and execution across forces.
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- No Change in Existing Service Laws:
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- Does not alter the Army, Navy, or Air Force Acts.
- Ensures that unique service conditions remain intact while enabling joint administrative mechanisms.
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- Command Clarity and Emergency Protocols:
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- Provides clear succession procedures when commanding officers are on leave or unavailable.
- Allows higher formations to deputize acting commanders during emergencies.
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- Administrative Efficiency: Prevents duplication of disciplinary actions, promotes synergy in resource utilisation, and strengthens command accountability.
