What Concerns Did CPI(M) MP Raise With PM Modi Regarding Pensioners?
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Synopsis
CPI(M) MP Dr. John Brittas has raised crucial issues with PM Modi concerning the welfare of Central Government pensioners, highlighting potential discrimination and financial concerns. His letter calls for immediate attention to safeguard pension equality and restore the faith of those who served the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. John Brittas emphasizes the need for pension equality.
- The 8th Central Pay Commission poses potential risks for pensioners.
- Concerns about pensions being viewed as financial liabilities.
- The importance of adhering to Article 14 of the Constitution.
- Urgent reforms are needed to restore pensioners' rights.
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 26 (NationPress) - CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP Dr. John Brittas has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, voicing significant concerns regarding the increasing sense of disillusionment among elderly and super-elderly Central Government pensioners.
In his comprehensive correspondence, Brittas brought attention to the worries stemming from the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) and a contentious validation clause embedded in the Finance Bill 2025.
He cautioned that this clause seems to allow for retrospective differentiation among pensioners based on their retirement dates, potentially breaching the principle of pension equality established by the Supreme Court.
Referencing the pivotal ruling in D. S. Nakara vs Union of India (1982), he emphasized that all pensioners form a cohesive group and cannot be discriminated against based on their retirement dates.
This differentiation, he asserted, undermines Article 14 of the Constitution, which ensures equal protection under the law.
Dr. Brittas expressed concern that the language in the ToR, particularly the characterization of pensions as an “unfunded cost of a non-contributory scheme”, risks relegating pensions to mere financial liabilities rather than acknowledging them as deferred wages and legal entitlements.
The lack of guarantees for equitable treatment of both past and future pensioners has heightened anxiety levels, he noted.
He also pointed out that although the government introduced the Unified Pension Scheme promising 50% of the last basic pay as pension, the ongoing recovery of 10% salary contributions and the exclusion of essential benefits such as commutation and family pension have raised alarms when juxtaposed with the Old Pension Scheme.
The journalist-turned-lawmaker also emphasized that crucial matters like shortening the restoration period for commuted pensions, adjusting the Fixed Medical Allowance, and providing additional pensions for individuals aged between 65 and 80 have not been addressed in the ToR.
Furthermore, he noted the persistent exclusion of employees from autonomous and statutory bodies, who encountered challenges during the 7th CPC.
Dr. Brittas urged the Prime Minister to enhance the ToR and offer a clear assurance safeguarding pension equality, stressing that such measures would help restore confidence among those who once “carried the wheels of governance with honour and devotion”.
Point of View
The concerns raised by Dr. Brittas reflect a larger issue regarding the treatment of pensioners in our society. As stewards of governance, it is essential that we uphold the principles of equality and fairness for those who dedicated their lives to public service. The government must act decisively to ensure that the rights and welfare of pensioners are preserved.
NationPress
26/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main concerns raised by Dr. John Brittas?
Dr. John Brittas highlighted issues regarding potential discrimination among pensioners based on retirement dates and concerns about pensions being treated as financial liabilities instead of legal entitlements.
How does the 8th Central Pay Commission affect pensioners?
The 8th Central Pay Commission's Terms of Reference could potentially lead to unequal treatment of pensioners, raising alarm about the constitutional rights of these individuals.
What does the Supreme Court say about pension equality?
The Supreme Court, in its ruling of D. S. Nakara vs Union of India (1982), affirmed that all pensioners are part of a homogeneous class and cannot be discriminated against based on their retirement dates.
What is the Unified Pension Scheme?
The Unified Pension Scheme was introduced promising 50% of the last basic pay as pension, but it has faced criticism for not providing essential benefits compared to the Old Pension Scheme.
What action is Dr. Brittas urging from PM Modi?
Dr. Brittas is urging Prime Minister Modi to strengthen the Terms of Reference to ensure pension equality and restore confidence among pensioners.
