Pensioners mark All India Pensioners’ day with protest in Shimla, Flag ‘Discriminatory’ policies
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source Internet
Shimla, Dec 18,
Central government pensioners marked the 43rd All India Pensioners’ Day by holding a peaceful protest at Ambedkar Chowk in Shimla on Tuesday, voicing concern over what they described as discriminatory pension-related policies that have unsettled retirees across the country.
Holding placards and banners, pensioners raised issues related to pension validation procedures, parity in pension revision, and the future implementation of Pay Commission recommendations. The protest served both as a remembrance of a landmark Supreme Court judgment favouring pensioners and as a warning against policies that, they alleged, undermine that very principle.
Speaking at the gathering, several pensioners recalled that the apex court had clearly held pension to be a right and not a discretionary benefit. They said the judgment had emphasised that unequal treatment among pensioners violates the constitutional guarantee of equality before law.
“We have served the government through the most productive and precious years of our lives, with the peace of mind that our pension would secure our future,” said Sarojni, a retired central government employee participating in the protest. “But the discriminatory policies being introduced today have left many of us anxious about survival and dignity in old age.”
One of the key demands raised was the withdrawal of the Validation of Pension provision notified on March 25, 2025, which pensioners claimed has created avoidable procedural barriers and unequal treatment among retirees. Protesters also sought revision of the existing Terms of Pension Revision (TPR), demanding parity for employees who retired before 2026 with those retiring later.
The demonstrators further pressed for the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission from January 1, 2026, with a clear and unambiguous reference in its Terms of Reference. According to pensioners’ representatives, delays or ambiguity on this front could impact over 69 lakh central government pensioners nationwide.
Participants warned that continued inaction could compel pensioners to escalate their agitation at the national level. They appealed to the Prime Minister to take cognisance of their concerns and ensure social security measures that allow retired employees to live with dignity.
The protest concluded peacefully, with pensioners reaffirming their resolve to continue the movement until their demands receive a fair and just response.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
