Congress MP Deepender Hooda Announces Major Protest Against Haryana Pension Cuts
Congress MP Deepender Hooda declared on Sunday that a significant protest will be organized in Sonipat on February 15, targeting the Haryana government's controversial decision to reduce old-age pensions. Speaking from Rohtak, Hooda launched a scathing attack on the ruling BJP administration, accusing it of undermining the rights and dignity of the state's elderly population through what he described as manipulative governance.
Accusations of Government Betrayal and Empty Promises
Deepender Hooda expressed deep frustration over the pension cuts, asserting that the BJP government, which he claims came to power through "manipulation and conspiracy" by exploiting public sentiment, is now systematically attacking vulnerable groups. He highlighted that after the elections, the BJP first reduced ration cards for the poor and is now targeting the pensions of the elderly, actions he vowed to resist at all costs.
"Old-age pension is not charity; it is the respect and dignity of the elderly," Hooda emphasized. "We will not let the dignity of the elderly be compromised. We will fight against this from the streets to the Parliament and the assembly."
Unfulfilled Promises and Data Transparency Demands
The Congress leader pointed out that Chief Minister Nayab Saini had announced a Rs 200 increase in old-age pensions approximately four months ago, but this promise remains unimplemented. Hooda questioned whether this was merely an empty gesture, asking, "Was it just an empty promise? Does the Haryana government want to fill its coffers by snatching away the rights of the elderly?"
He further demanded that the government release district-wise data detailing how many elderly individuals have had their pensions stopped or reduced. According to Hooda, the administration is preparing to cut pensions for lakhs of elderly people by imposing an income limit of Rs 3 lakh, a move estimated to affect around 72,000 beneficiaries.
Comparative Analysis of Pension Policies
Drawing a sharp contrast between political regimes, Hooda noted that under the Congress government led by Bhupinder Singh Hooda, pensions saw a 233 percent increase over nine years. In contrast, he claimed the BJP government has managed only a 200 percent rise over twelve years, underscoring what he views as a lack of commitment to social welfare.
The upcoming protest in Sonipat is poised to become a focal point for opposition against these pension cuts, reflecting broader tensions over social security and governance in Haryana.
