India, March 24 -- The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday granted Permanent Commission to women military officers, terming it a step towards "complete justice," in a landmark ruling aimed at ensuring gender equality in the armed forces.

The court held that women Short Service Commission (SSC) officers in the Army, Navy and Air Force who were denied Permanent Commission and released after 14 years of service would be entitled to pension benefits.

Invoking Article 142 of the Constitution of India, the apex court said the relief was necessary to deliver complete justice in the matter.

Earlier, in December, the Centre told the court that there was no discrimination in granting Permanent Commission to SSC women officers in the Indian Air For...