My Internship at the Armed Forces Tribunal: A Deep Dive into Military Law
From August 6th to August 29th, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to complete my legal internship at the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT), Regional Bench in Chandigarh, as a fourth-year B.A. LL.B (Hons.) student from Graphic Era Hill University, this internship was a pivotal step in understanding the practical application of law, specifically within the unique and disciplined framework of the armed forces.
The AFT is a specialized judicial body established to adjudicate disputes and complaints related to the service conditions and appointments of personnel in the armed forces. Interning here was not just another item on my resume; it was a deep dive into a niche and highly respected area of legal practice.
Responsibilities: Military Law Internship
My time at the AFT was structured to provide maximum exposure to the workings of military tribunals. My responsibilities and learning can be broken down into three core areas:
1. Observation of Court Proceedings
The most enriching aspect of my internship was observing daily Armed Forces Tribunal proceedings. Sitting in the courtroom, I witnessed seasoned advocates and the Hon’ble Bench deliberate on complex cases involving service matters, pension disputes, promotions, and disciplinary actions. This firsthand experience was invaluable. It taught me about courtroom etiquette, the art of legal argumentation, and the specific procedural nuances of the AFT, which are quite distinct from civilian courts.
2. In-Depth Case Discussions and Legal Research
Beyond mere observation, I engaged in detailed discussions regarding ongoing cases with legal staff and fellow interns. These discussions sharpened my ability to think critically about evidence, strategy, and legal interpretation. I also reviewed landmark judgments and relevant legislation such as the Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007, the Army Act, 1950, the Navy Act, 1957, and the Air Force Act, 1950. This experience gave me clarity on how laws are applied in real-world contexts.
3. Research Project on “Court Martial”
A major highlight of my internship was the independent research project on Court Martial. I examined types of court-martial proceedings, the rights of the accused, evidentiary standards, and the scope for judicial review by the AFT. This project enhanced my expertise in a niche field of law, and the appreciation I received for it was deeply fulfilling.
Skills Developed and Professional Growth
- Analytical Acumen: Interpreting complex case files honed my issue-spotting and problem-solving skills.
- Research Proficiency: I improved my ability to navigate practical resources beyond academic databases.
- Professional Conduct: The tribunal environment instilled discipline, punctuality, and discretion in my professional outlook.
Final Reflections and Certification
I am grateful to the Hon’ble Members and Registrar Ruchi Sonkar Ma’am for certifying my internship and acknowledging my satisfactory work.
For law students interested in constitutional law, administrative law, or careers in military justice, I highly recommend an internship at the Armed Forces Tribunal. It provides unique exposure to justice, discipline, and the legal protections available to armed forces personnel.