The EPS-95 Retired Employees' Coordination Committee has made a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging his immediate intervention to ensure the implementation of higher pension benefits for retirees under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS-95). The committee, based in Nagpur, has expressed deep frustration over the prolonged delay and alleged inaction by the authorities.
EPFO Accused of Defying Court Orders Since 2004
The core of the grievance lies in the committee's accusation against the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). The retirees allege that the EPFO has consistently failed to enforce the higher pension scheme since 2004, despite several rulings from various courts. The organization is charged with issuing a series of circulars that created restrictive cut-off dates, effectively denying eligible employees the option to opt for higher pensions.
According to the committee's detailed letter, the EPFO issued a total of six such circulars between 2004 and 2025. The legal standing of these circulars has been repeatedly challenged. Of these six, three were struck down by the Supreme Court, while the most recent one was invalidated by the Madras and Calcutta High Courts. Two other circulars remain under legal challenge, currently being examined by the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court.
Immense Hardship and Legal Chaos Caused
The committee did not mince words in describing the impact of this prolonged battle. "EPFO's failure to implement higher pensions has caused immense hardship and mental distress to senior citizens, along with loss of public funds," the letter stated. The administrative chaos has triggered a flood of litigation across the country.
A single circular issued on May 31, 2017, alone led to the filing of nearly 1,700 court cases nationwide, highlighting the widespread discontent among the pensioner community. The committee has demanded strict action against the officials responsible for issuing these contentious circulars but notes that no such disciplinary measures have been taken so far.
Ministry's Inaction Despite Presidential Directive
The retirees' frustration extends to the Ministry of Labour and Employment as well. The committee expressed displeasure over the ministry's perceived inaction, even after the issue was escalated to the highest levels. A representation sent directly to the President of India on May 20, 2024, was forwarded to the Labour Secretary for appropriate action on May 31, 2024.
However, the committee claims that the ministry has yet to take any concrete steps to resolve the long-pending issue. This apparent lack of movement, despite a directive from the President's Office, has left the elderly pensioners feeling neglected and has strengthened their resolve to seek the Prime Minister's direct involvement to cut through the bureaucratic impasse and deliver justice.
