Statehood Day: Activists Demand Increase in Pension Amount

Dhanbad, 15 November:

Jharkhand completed 25 years of its formation, but the activists who played a pivotal role in the statehood movement say they continue to face neglect. Their biggest disappointment is the pension amount of ₹3,500 provided by the government, which they say is inadequate. They also highlighted the lack of proper healthcare facilities.

Activists Voice Concerns During Silver Jubilee Celebration

During the Silver Jubilee celebration held at Town Hall on Saturday, statehood activists Jagat Mahato and Hafijuddin Ansari expressed their dissatisfaction.

They said that Jharkhand was formed due to the sacrifices and struggles of the movement activists, and therefore the government should increase the pension amount from ₹3,500 to ₹10,000 per month to provide them with basic financial security.

Deputy Commissioner Supports Demand for Hike

Deputy Commissioner Aditya Ranjan extended support to the demand raised by the activists. He stated that the decision to revise the pension amount can only be taken at the state government level, but he assured that the demand would be communicated to the higher authorities.

He added that efforts are being made to strengthen healthcare services at the district level. Apart from government hospitals, the administration will also strive to ensure priority access to better medical facilities for activists in private hospitals.