Srinagar, June 15 (KNS): The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Pensioners United Front held a press conference in Srinagar, voicing serious concerns over reports that crores of pensioners might be excluded from the proposed 8th Pay Commission benefits.
Speaking at the press meet, President Abdul Qayoom Wani said the organization, which represents lakhs of pensioners across the Union Territories, stands with the nationwide call by the All India State Pensioners Federation. As part of the June 23 programme, pensioners across the country will submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister through Deputy Commissioners, urging inclusion in the 8th Pay Commission.
Wani said the equity in pension, upheld by the Supreme Court and previous Pay Commissions, must be preserved. He criticized any move to amend established legal protections using parliamentary majority, calling it a threat to justice.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“We appeal to the Prime Minister for personal intervention so pensioners may find some relief,” he said, according to KNS.
The Front also criticized the J&K government for its alleged negligence towards pensioners’ rights, including non-payment of gratuity, commutation loans, and withheld leave salary. Wani condemned the delayed enhancement of medical allowances and lack of implementation of senior citizens’ welfare laws.
The organization demanded the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, timely release of dearness allowance arrears from the COVID period, and removal of longstanding pay anomalies.
“If the government fails to act, we will be left with no option but to adopt peaceful democratic means,” Wani added.(KNS)