1stOctober every year is observed throughout the world as the International Day of Pensioners as per the call of the Trade Union International (Pensioners & Retirees). It is based on the decision of the United Nations to observe the day as International Day of Seniors / Elderly to focus on the issues of the elder people, whose number is increasing every year. In India also it is being observed and celebrated every year, both by the government and the organisations for the welfare of the pensioners / retirees.
After serving the nation and the people for many years, the pensioners are expected to live a dignified and respectable retired life. But the reality is different. They got health problems. They require companionship and assistance. But often, they are ignored even by their own families. They are not cared for. Their security is not ensured. Financially they are in difficulty.
The right for pension is being questioned and the pensioners are treated as a burden for the government. Pension and retirement benefits are being attacked globally in the name of austerity measures. In India, the defined statutory pension for retired government employees have been changed in to contributory pension, for those recruited from 2004. The National Pension Scheme (NPS) is nothing but a No Pension Scheme. The regular employment is being replaced by fixed tenure employment, for which there will neither be pension nor retirement benefits.
Many of the benefits ensured to the pensioners and retirees in the aftermath of the II World War are being taken away. Globalisation, liberalisation and privatisation process, with the single motive for profit has worsened the situation of the elderly and the pensioners.
Pension Revision due from 01-01-2017 is yet to take place for BSNL retirees. Medical Allowance is not paid for months. There is no guarantee that the Modi government will take urgent action on these issues.
It is in this context that the TUI(P&R), affiliated to the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU), has called upon the pensioners’ organisations throughout the world to observe 1st October 2019 as the International Day of Struggle for the Rights of Pensioners and Retired People with particular emphasis on dignified life including food, transport and housing.
AIBDPA calls upon all its units to observe the day, by holding meetings, demonstrations, seminars etc. with massive participation. The issues of the pensioners and the agitation and struggles being organised by AIBDPA are to be focussed. Reports of the observation of the day should be sent to the CHQ.
OBSERVE THE DAY OF STRUGGLE ON OCTOBER 1!