Srinagar, Oct 23 (KNS): Apni Party Senior Vice President and former Cabinet Minister Ghulam Hassan Mir on Friday demanded the immediate release of pending monthly pensions for elderly people, widows and persons with disabilities across Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement issued here, Mir said reports from the ground suggest that beneficiaries belonging to these vulnerable sections have not received their monthly pensions for several months, causing hardship to people dependent on the financial assistance.

He criticised the ruling party for failing to fulfil its election promise of increasing the monthly pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000.

"It is ironic that instead of receiving the promised increase, beneficiaries are being deprived of even the meagre amount they are currently entitled to," Mir said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He said delays involving large payments generally attract public attention and concern, but the plight of elderly people, widows and persons with disabilities continues to receive little attention.

Mir accused the government of showing disregard for the welfare of economically vulnerable sections despite its responsibility to ensure timely financial assistance.

He urged the government to clear all pending pension payments without further delay and fulfil its commitment to enhance the monthly assistance for eligible beneficiaries. (KNS)