Direct answer
There is no single deadline for every AFT proceeding. Sections 21–22 govern service applications, review has a separate rule and Sections 30–31 govern Supreme Court appeals. Identify the actual final departmental decision and dates immediately.
Legal position and important distinctions
Section 22(1)(a) provides six months from the relevant final order. Non-disposal of a representation requires separate examination under Sections 21(2)(b) and 22(1)(b); historical transitional grievances have different statutory wording. Repeated representations do not ordinarily restart limitation against an earlier adverse decision. Check the separate court-martial route and application-specific requirements instead of treating six months as universal.
Keep the case file readable
Use a chronology of the main decision, communication, representation, departmental appeal and response. Separate facts from legal submissions. Keep annexures legible and pagination accurate, and disclose earlier or pending proceedings. A large document bundle cannot cure missing grounds or an unclear prayer.
Track what follows submission
Monitor the diary acknowledgement, scrutiny objections, compliance deadline, registration and service. Check the latest cause list or order for hearing and video-appearance arrangements. Maintain current contact details and a written record of registry directions. A filing receipt does not itself establish a stay, admission or success.
Recognise time-sensitive situations
A final adverse decision, impending discharge, custody, payment stoppage or appellate deadline can require prompt advice. Explain the particular grounds and urgent harm for interim relief. General website guidance does not alter an individual statutory time limit.
Practical steps
- Prepare a table of decision, communication, appeal and reply dates.
- Identify the statutory clock for each proposed application.
- If late, provide a supported and truthful condonation application.
Documents to collect
- Final order and delivery proof
- Departmental appeals
- Evidence explaining delay
Hypothetical illustration
The same representation is sent annually after an adverse order. A recent reminder does not automatically make the original decision timely to challenge.
Avoid this mistake
A CPGRAMS, SPARSH or RTI submission does not automatically extend every statutory filing period.
Official sources
- Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007 — sections 2, 3(o), 14–15, 19, 21–24, 29–32
- AFT (Procedure) Rules, 2008, as amended — rules 6–8, 18 and prescribed forms
Legal disclaimer
This article provides general legal information and the author’s general analysis, not individual legal advice. Reading it does not create an advocate–client relationship or guarantee an outcome. Rules, policies and judgments can change. Before acting, obtain qualified advice on your documents, applicable dates, jurisdiction and time limits.
Source check: 1 November 2026.