KAZA(SPITI) - Pensioners in Spiti have expressed their deep anguish with the state government as they continue to be denied their rightful pensions. In a move to address this ongoing issue, an emergency meeting has been called by the pensioners on June 17th.
The state government has yet to take the necessary steps to resolve the problem, failing to appoint a regular treasurer, superintendent, and computer operator in Spiti.
This crucial lack of personnel has resulted in significant delays in processing pension payments, leaving more than 50 pensioners in a dire state of financial distress.
Kodak Dorje Bodh, General Secretary of the Pensioners Association, vehemently condemned the discontinuation of pensions for these individuals since December 2022. He emphasized the complete disregard shown by the government, demanding swift condemnation of this deplorable act.
Bodh further criticized the lack of communication from the Treasurer, stressing the crucial importance of informing pensioners before halting their payments. The negligence in providing clear and timely information has only exacerbated the suffering of the pensioners.
Despite the restoration of a handful of pensions following media coverage in Himachal Pradesh's HimbuMail, the distressing fact remains that 51 pensioners are still deprived of their rightful entitlements. The state government's inaction continues to deny these individuals their much-needed financial support.
Adding to their mounting concerns, the unresolved case regarding the arrears of Dearness Allowance Revised Pay Scale 2006 has further exacerbated the struggles faced by the pensioners. The state government's negligence in addressing this matter only deepens the hardship endured by these deserving retirees.
In a bid to ensure that all affected pensioners receive the support they deserve, efforts must be made to reach out to elderly and ill individuals who may be unable to attend the upcoming meeting. Gathering information about their pension status and providing necessary assistance is crucial in standing up for their rights.
The Pensioners Association, along with the support of Civil Society and Voice of Spiti, extends support to the wider Spiti community.
Concerned citizens are urged to join the association on June 17th, 2023, at 11 am, at the Spiti Community Bhawan, to collectively address this urgent matter.
This distressing situation demands immediate action from the authorities to rectify the gross injustice faced by the pensioners of Spiti.
