KPUF condemns ‘anti-pensioner policy’ moves

Srinagar, Nov 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Pensioners United Front (KPUF) has strongly condemned the reported provisions of the Finance Act 2025, terming them “anti-pensioner” and a “direct assault on the dignity of retired employees.”

A statement of the session of KPUF office-bearers, executive, and general council members was held at the organisation’s central office in Bemina under the chairmanship of Abdul Qayoom Wani. The meeting expressed deep resentment over the proposed move to deny pensioners future Dearness Allowance (DA) hikes and benefits from upcoming Pay Commissions, including the 8th Pay Commission.

Wani said such regressive measures amounted to “dishonouring those who have rendered decades of selfless service to the nation.”

He termed the move a “blatant disregard for the constitutional and moral commitment” of the government towards its retired workforce.

“Pension is not a charity, but a deferred salary and a rightful entitlement upheld by the Supreme Court. Any attempt to curtail these rights will be resisted tooth and nail,” Wani said, urging the pensioners’ community to coordinate with national-level organisations to defend their rights.

He warned that the proposed measures would not only harm existing pensioners but also future retirees, “undermining their morale and sense of security.”

“This is not merely an attack on pensioners – it is a breach of trust with the entire working force of the country,” Wani said.

Calling for a united and peaceful struggle across India, Wani appealed to pensioners to “rise above regional and organisational boundaries” and safeguard their financial and social rights. “Silence today could invite deeper injustices tomorrow,” he cautioned.

Wani announced that an emergency meeting of the Jammu division will be held on November 17 to finalise a strategy for a “result-oriented struggle” at the Union Territory and national levels. He said directives had been issued to district units to mobilise pensioners and organise conventions at the grassroots level.

“We are in constant touch with national leadership to discuss developments and chalk out the future course of action,” Wani said, appealing to all pensioners’ bodies, employee unions, and civil society groups to stay “alert, coordinated, and determined.”

“This is a defining moment for our collective conscience,” he said. “We must defend the dignity and rights of those who built the nation with their sweat and dedication.”