Pensioners oppose Finance Deptt's physical verification order

Srinagar, July 10: Secretariat Retired Employee's Welfare Forum voiced strong opposition to a recent Finance Department circular mandating physical verification of retired government employees.

The forum, led by President Nazir Ahmad, expressed particular concern for elderly retirees and family pensioners who may face health challenges in complying with this directive.

The meeting, convened urgently to address the issue, highlighted the contradiction between the government's push for digital solutions and the requirement for retirees to visit offices in person. The forum emphasized the need for a more convenient system that doesn't place undue burden on pensioners.

Mushtaq Hussain, General Secretary of the forum, stated, "We are calling on the Chief Secretary to issue revised instructions modifying the current order. We also appeal to the Lieutenant Governor to intervene and nullify this directive."

The forum acknowledged the government's efforts to address irregularities but argued that such measures should not come at the cost of elderly pensioners' well-being. They warned that requiring pensioners to queue at treasury offices in extreme heat could pose serious health risks.

In a show of solidarity, the forum expressed support for all active pensioner welfare groups and called for united action on this issue. They pledged to engage promptly with relevant authorities to seek a resolution.