Pensioners Under the Employee Pension Scheme to Protest for Higher Pensions
Pensioners under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) are gearing up for a major protest on July 31, advocating for a substantial increase in their minimum monthly pension to Rs 7,500. The move comes as a response to the longstanding grievance regarding the inadequate pension amount, which has posed serious challenges to the livelihood of pensioners. Commander Ashok Raut, President of EPS-95 National Struggle Committee, highlighted the financial plight faced by pensioners, emphasizing that the current pension amount is insufficient for survival, despite their prolonged contributions to the pension fund.
The demand to enhance the minimum pension has been persistent for the last 8 years, with a staggering 78 lakh pensioners across the country urging the government to address this pressing issue. Notably, the current average monthly pension stands at a meager Rs. 1450, prompting pensioners to call for an increase to Rs 7,500 per month, along with dearness allowance, and the provision of free health facilities for pensioners’ spouses.
Commander Raut expressed disappointment in the lack of concrete action from the government, despite engagements with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Finance Minister, and the Labor Minister. Consequently, the pensioners are now poised to extend their support to political parties willing to champion their cause, signaling their unwavering commitment to pursuing a resolution.
In preparation for the upcoming protest, a meeting of the National Executive of the Samiti is scheduled to take place in Delhi from 29th to 30th July. The meeting aims to address the demands of the pensioners, with plans to stage a dharna at Jantar Mantar on 31st July and 1st August should their demands remain unmet. This protest is anticipated to draw participants from across the country, amplifying the pensioners’ unified call for much-needed reforms.
The resolute stance of the pensioners serves as a cogent reminder of the imperative to address their long-standing grievances, underscoring the significance of ensuring dignified livelihoods for retired individuals who have contributed significantly to the workforce. As the impending protest looms, all eyes are on the government’s response to these compelling demands as the nation awaits a pivotal decision on the matter.
