BJP Accuses AAP Government in Punjab of Deceiving 350,000 Pensioners
BJP leader Vijay Sampla claims the AAP government has failed to implement pension reforms, affecting 350,000 pensioners in Punjab.
Chandigarh, November 13 (Daily Kiran) : BJP leader Vijay Sampla has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, of deceiving approximately 350,000 pensioners in Punjab. Speaking on Friday, Sampla criticized the government for refusing to implement the ‘2.59 multiplier factor’ recommended by the Sixth Punjab Pay Commission.
He described the government’s decision as a severe injustice to senior citizens, alleging that the lack of adherence to the pay commission’s recommendations has left pensioners facing financial hardships. The commission had clearly recommended adjustments to pensions using the 2.59 multiplier, but the state government has reportedly applied a much lower rate, causing significant economic losses for retired employees.
Sampla noted that pensioners, at the twilight of their lives, have been forced to protest and seek their rightful entitlements for over four and a half years. He further alleged that the government has denied pensioners the benefits of the recommended multiplier factor and is attempting to reduce their dearness allowance.
He mentioned that pensioners have taken their grievances to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, accusing the state government of being insensitive and obstinate in addressing their concerns.
Referencing pre-election promises made by AAP leaders, Sampla pointed out that they had vowed to deliver full justice to pensioners immediately after taking office. Instead, he claimed that the Mann government has betrayed various groups of government employees and retirees over the past four and a half years, forcing millions into prolonged legal battles and protests.
Sampla assured that if the BJP forms the government in Punjab, fulfilling the long-standing demand for the 2.59 multiplier factor for pensioners will be a top priority, along with addressing all legitimate grievances of retirees and employees.
Earlier, on November 11, Sampla had exposed the Mann government’s claims about a ‘health revolution,’ stating that the government has merely engaged in publicity while 60% of principal positions (1,153) and 35,000 teacher positions remain vacant. He called for a white paper from the central health ministry detailing the health budget, advertisement expenditures, and the recruitment process.
