 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 24: A press conference was organized by former corporator Sham Lal Basson and other prominent figures to address the suspension of pensions for widows, the elderly, and physically challenged individuals, following Order No. 156 issued by the Social Welfare Department in September 2022. The order mandated various documentation requirements, including PHH ration cards, widow non-remarriage certificates, age certificates, affidavits, voter cards, PAN cards, electricity bills, domicile certificates, and gas cylinder copies.
Despite the organization of multiple camps by the Social Welfare Department, the CAPD department accepted only a few files, leaving many without the necessary PHH ration cards. The affected individuals had anticipated an increase in their pensions from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 per month, but the LG Administration has halted even the existing ?1,000 payments. In contrast, states like Haryana provide ?3,000 monthly, raising concerns about the disparity in support.
A major barrier to the issuance of PHH ration cards has been the longstanding issue of non-bifurcation. The speakers at the conference urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Minister Sakeena Masood Itoo to intervene with the Government of India. They called for the revocation of Order No. 156 or the exclusion of the PHH ration card requirement to ensure timely pension disbursements.
Over a hundred widows, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities attended the conference, with participants expressing hope for justice and timely support. Key figures at the event included Prof. C.L. Shivgotra, Kuldeep Raj, Gopal Dass, and many others advocating for the rights and welfare of these vulnerable groups. |
