Demonstrators demand minimum ₹7,500 pension, threaten electoral consequences
Key Points:
• EPS-95 pensioners stage protests at Provident Fund offices across India
• Jharkhand coordinator demands increase from current ₹1,400-₹3,500 range
• Protesters threaten to withhold votes if demands not met before elections
JAMSHEDPUR – Pensioners across India have united to voice their demands for improved benefits under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95).
Nationwide protests erupted at Provident Fund offices today.
The National Struggle Committee led the demonstrations under its banner.
Kali Pado Swai, Jharkhand coordinator, highlighted the current pension inadequacy.
He stated pensioners receive between ₹1,400 to ₹3,500 monthly.
Moreover, Swai revealed multiple meetings with top officials yielded only assurances.
The protesters are demanding a minimum pension of ₹7,500 for all beneficiaries.
Additionally, they seek free medical benefits for both pensioners and their spouses.
Furthermore, the demonstrators called for a ₹5,000 minimum pension for closed company employees.
Meanwhile, Swai reported there are 78 lakh pensioners nationwide under EPS-95.
Jharkhand alone accounts for over 5 lakh pensioners in this scheme.
On the other hand, Raghunath Pandey, President of Tata Steel UISSL Union, joined the protest.
He emphasized the need for pensioners to organize like farmers for effective results.
Pandey warned of the government’s intention to replace existing laws with new ones.
The protesters highlighted their persistent efforts, including demonstrations in Delhi.
They expressed frustration over the lack of concrete action despite their appeals.
Senior citizens threatened to withhold votes if demands are not met before elections.
The nationwide protest underscores the growing discontent among EPS-95 pensioners.
