Odisha Government to Provide Monthly Pension of ₹20,000 to Emergency Detainees
The Odisha government has taken a significant step to honor those who suffered during the dark days of the 1975-77 Emergency in India. This bold initiative promises to deliver both financial support and healthcare benefits to the survivors, ensuring their welfare in the coming years.
Introduction of Monthly Pension and Healthcare Benefits
In a recent announcement, the Odisha government confirmed the introduction of a monthly pension of ₹20,000 along with free healthcare services for individuals who were imprisoned during the Emergency period under Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), Defense of India Rules (DIR), or Defense of India Security Instructions Rules (DISIR). This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to acknowledging the sacrifices of these patriots.
Eligibility Criteria for the Pension Scheme
According to the notification issued by the state’s Home Department, this pension will be granted exclusively to those individuals who were detained between June 26, 1975, and March 21, 1977. Importantly, the pension is reserved for living detainees as of January 1, 2025, regardless of the duration of their imprisonment during the Emergency.
Healthcare Benefits for Emergency Detainees
The government has also assured that eligible individuals will receive free medical treatment in accordance with the provisions of the Health and Family Welfare Department.
Implementation Date and Scope of Benefits
These benefits will be effective from January 1, 2025. It is essential to note that no retrospective benefits will be provided for periods before this date. This forward-looking approach aims to ensure prompt implementation and immediate support to the eligible individuals.
A Historical Perspective on Emergency Pension Schemes
The Emergency period, often described as one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history, saw numerous individuals imprisoned for opposing authoritarian rule. Recognizing their sacrifices, several states in India have introduced pension schemes for Emergency detainees.
Comparative Analysis of Pension Schemes Across States
- Madhya Pradesh offers a pension ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per year.
- Chhattisgarh provides a monthly pension between ₹5,000 and ₹25,000.
- Rajasthan has set a uniform pension amount of ₹20,000 per month.
Odisha’s initiative is particularly notable as it not only matches but also complements these existing schemes by including healthcare benefits.
Odisha’s Previous Initiatives for Emergency Detainees
This is not the first time Odisha has recognized the contributions of Emergency detainees. Back in August 2019, the state, under Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s leadership, announced a ₹500 monthly pension for these individuals under the Madhubabu Pension Yojana. However, this earlier initiative faced criticism due to the perceived inadequacy of the financial support provided.
Chief Minister’s Vision for Welfare and Recognition
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has been vocal about the need to respect and support those who endured hardships during the Emergency. By introducing this enhanced pension scheme and healthcare benefits, the government seeks to acknowledge their role in upholding democratic values.
Public Statements and Commitment to Democracy
Addressing the press, CM Mohan Majhi emphasized that the Emergency detainees were patriots who bravely opposed the suppression of democratic freedoms. He reiterated the government’s resolve to honor their sacrifices through this comprehensive welfare package.
Public Transportation Benefits for Detainees
In addition to the financial and healthcare support, the government will also provide free bus passes to Emergency detainees, further easing their daily lives and acknowledging their contributions to the state’s democratic history.
