Has the Odisha government approved pensions for 23 more Emergency detainees?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved pensions for an additional 23 political detainees from the Emergency era, raising the total to 44. This initiative honors those who fought for democratic rights and aims to enhance their welfare.
Key Takeaways
- The Odisha government has approved pensions for 23 more Emergency detainees.
- This brings the total number of beneficiaries to 44.
- Each individual will receive a monthly pension of Rs 20,000.
- Beneficiaries will also have access to free medical treatment.
- The initiative recognizes the sacrifices of those who fought for democratic rights during the Emergency.
Bhubaneswar, May 10 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, has sanctioned pension benefits for 23 additional political detainees who were incarcerated under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and other stringent laws during the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977.
This decision follows a prior approval that granted pensions to 21 individuals, thus raising the total number of beneficiaries to 44.
In line with the government's mission to acknowledge those who defended Odia identity and championed democratic principles, CM Majhi has launched a comprehensive recognition initiative for notable figures and patriots from the Emergency era in Odisha.
As part of this program, monthly pensions for freedom fighters have been increased, with new pension entitlements introduced for those jailed during the Emergency under MISA and related laws.
The recently approved list comprises 19 detainees under MISA and four under the Defence of India (DIR) Act.
All 44 recognized individuals will now benefit from a monthly pension of Rs 20,000.
Furthermore, the beneficiaries will receive complimentary medical treatment as per the regulations of the State Health and Family Welfare department.
During the Emergency from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, many individuals nationwide were detained under MISA, DIR, DISIR (the Defence and Internal Security of India Rules), and other laws for opposing the suspension of democratic rights.
According to the latest ruling, all surviving political detainees from that era, effective from January 1, 2025, will qualify for pension and full medical benefits provided by the Odisha government.
CM Majhi had previously announced on January 2 that the state would double the pension amount for freedom fighters from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 monthly.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the importance of this decision by the Odisha government. Acknowledging the sacrifices of political detainees during the Emergency is essential not only for historical justice but also for reinforcing democratic values that we uphold as a nation. This initiative sets a precedent for recognizing the struggles faced by individuals who fought for their rights and freedoms.
NationPress
10/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the pension for Emergency detainees?
The pension serves as a recognition of the sacrifices made by political detainees during the Emergency, reinforcing the government's commitment to upholding democratic values.
How many individuals will benefit from the new pension scheme?
A total of 44 individuals will benefit from the new pension scheme approved by the Odisha government.
What is the amount of the monthly pension for these detainees?
Each recognized individual will receive a monthly pension of Rs 20,000.
Will the beneficiaries receive any medical benefits?
Yes, beneficiaries will be entitled to free medical treatment as per the provisions of the State Health and Family Welfare department.
When will the pension benefits for surviving detainees take effect?
The pension benefits for all surviving political detainees will be effective from January 1, 2025.
