Pensioners Stage Protest in Mysuru Over BSNL Pension Act Changes
Members of the National Coordination Committee Pensioners' Association (NCCPA) held a significant demonstration in Mysuru on Friday. The protest was directed against recent amendments made by the Union government to the Pension Act 2025. The aggrieved pensioners gathered outside the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) office located in the city's Jayalakshmipuram area to voice their strong opposition.
Core Demands and Condemnation of Benefit Cuts
The protestors presented a clear set of demands, with the primary one being the implementation of pension with effect from 1972. They expressed severe condemnation of the government's decision to downsize various allowances and benefits for BSNL staff under the new act. Specifically, they highlighted reductions in Travel Allowance (TA) and Dearness Allowance (DA), which significantly impact retirees' financial security.
A major point of contention raised was the perceived lack of legal protection for pensions if the new act is applied to them. The protestors argued that the amendments leave their pension rights vulnerable and insecure.
Allegations of Misinformation and Fund Diversion
The association members also accused the government of misleading the public. They stated that while the Union government has established a Rs 10 lakh crore pension fund, it is falsely claiming to provide pensions to BSNL staff using taxpayers' money. This, they allege, creates a wrong public perception about the source of the pension payments.
Furthermore, the pensioners opposed the government's reported move to divert pension funds for other development works. They view this as a dangerous precedent that jeopardizes the dedicated corpus meant for retiree welfare, potentially risking its sustainability for future payouts.
Leadership and Presence at the Demonstration
The protest saw the participation of key local leaders of the NCCPA. District unit president Parameshwaraiah and secretary Vishakantamurthy were prominently present, leading the demonstration and articulating the grievances of the pensioner community. Their involvement underscored the organized nature of the protest against the controversial pension policy changes.
