‘Govt. should raise monthly pension to at least Rs. 7,500’

Mysore/Mysuru: Seeking a hike in pension under EPS-95 (Employee Pension Scheme) pension scheme of Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), pensioners covered under the scheme have urged the Government to take measures in this regard.

Former Mysuru Mayor B.L. Bhyrappa, who spoke at Karnataka State EPS-95 scheme pensioners Mysuru Divisional Convention at Jaganmohan Palace here on Tuesday, said that the Supreme Court, in an order issued on Nov. 4, 2022, has directed the Government to pay pension in accordance with  basic pay. But the Government is yet to act on the order which is unfortunate, he noted.

Maintaining that the pension range currently stands at Rs.450 to Rs. 3,000, he said that it is very difficult to lead a retired life with this meagre pension and as such the Government should raise the pension to at least Rs.7,500. Urging the Government to issue ESI and BPL cards to EPS-95 pensioners, Bhyrappa wanted the Government to also issue free bus and train pass, as this will help the pensioners a lot in the evening of their life.

Pointing out that this convention was organised to press the Government for fulfillment of various demands of EPS-95 pensioners, he warned the Government of staging a massive stir if the pension hike and other demands are not met.

City JD(S) President K.T. Cheluvegowda, Corporators K.V. Sridhar, Pailwan Srinivas and SBM Manju, former Corporator Shivanna, EPS Pensioners Association President S.P. Ningegowda, office-bearers N. Rajanna, Chikkamanchaiah, K.V. Basavanna and others were present.