Retired employees concerned over Government directive on physical verification

Srinagar, July 10: A meeting was convened today by Nazir Ahmad, President of the Secretariat Retired Employees' Forum, via a digital mode.

The focus of the meeting was the Finance Department's recent circular mandating physical verification of retired government employees. This directive has raised significant concerns, particularly for elderly retirees and family pensioners who face numerous health challenges.

"In an era where digital solutions are increasingly prevalent, it is disheartening to see retired government employees required to visit offices for physical verification. This burden needs urgent reassessment by the government to implement a more convenient system for retirees," a statement said.

The committee resolved to bring this critical issue to the attention of the Chief Secretary, urging the issuance of revised instructions to modify the current order. Additionally, the committee expressed unanimous support for all active forums advocating for pensioner welfare and called for united action. "We respectfully request the Lieutenant Governor to utilise his esteemed office to nullify the current order. While we commend the government's efforts to address irregularities, it should not come at the expense of elderly pensioners. We once again appeal to the government to reconsider this directive to prevent pensioners from enduring long queues in the extreme heat at treasury offices, which endangers their health."

All members supported the President's initiative to promptly engage with the relevant authorities and pledged solidarity with other forums in this cause