Posted: 15 Nov 2015 06:56 AM PST
Kejriwal demands OROP to be implemented in its true essence
“Despite
the fact that OROP has crossed two stages, protests by army veterans
continue in New Delhi. The centre has made official announcements
regarding OROP, but protests are continuing demanding the annual
revision of pension.”
Equal
pension for all ex-servicemen is the most important goal of the OROP
scheme. This can be achieved only if pension is revised based solely on
the rank and years of service, once every year. Pension revision once
every five years is unacceptable. This is the bone of contention for the
continuing protests.
Delhi
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met the protesters and expressed his
support. He also harshly criticized the centre. “OROP must be
implemented in its true essence. The centre’s announcements are not
complete because they do not reflect the essence of OROP. The centre
should refrain from fooling the army veterans. They are not begging for
alms. They are only fighting for what rightfully belongs to them. It is
unfortunate that these veterans who fought for the country are now being
forced to protest on the streets for their rights. The centre should
immediately accept and implement their demands,” he said.
Meanwhile,
the army veterans had threatened to return their gallantry service
medals if the government did not accept their demands. Some of the
frustrated veterans tried to burn down their medals. But others
restrained them.
Manohar
Parrikar, the Minister of Defence, while addressing a gathering in
Madurai, said that returning the medals was akin to insulting the
country and the armed forces. He had also clarified that OROP was the
promise of a political party, not of the central government. He added
that protesting was their right and that they should approach the
judicial panel committee. He made it very clear that not all the demands
will be fulfilled.
Indian
Ex-Servicemen Movement general secretary Group Capt V.K. Gandhi (retd)
also said that until the judicial committee submits it report, the
veterans could not go to court. This, he said, was a “delaying tactic”.
In
an article published by the Indian Express yesterday, it was said that
the veterans risk losing public support due to their immoderate position
and political leadership also needs to reachout to the veterans.
The army veterans are hoping for an amicable resolution of the protests through fair negotiations with the government.
Source: http://www.cgstaffportal.in
Regards,
E.R.Iyer
