Today, 17th August,2015 Com. K. G. Jayaraj, General Secretary had a detailed discussion with Shri. Prachish Khanna, Director (Estt), DOT regarding the progress on 78.2% IDA merger. The Director confirmed the receipt of the cabinet note back from the Department of Expenditure but it is more trouble that objections are raised in respect of the 60-40 issue. The file is put up to the Member (Finance) ,DOT for further action.

We strongly protest the insistence of 60-40 issue in considering 78.2% to BSNL pensioners retired before 10-06-2013 despite the clarification issued by Secretary, DOT vide order  dated 05-01-2009  which states as follows;

” In this connection it is hereby clarified that the above said limit of 60% is for normal funding. This does not in any way distract from the fact that the ultimate liability towards pensionary benefits including family pension to the BSNL employees ( excepting those recruited after 01-10-2000), as per sub rule 21 of Rule 37-A of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, lies  with the Government of India. If BSNL, for any reason, is not able to contribute to the extent prescribed in para 1 above, the Government of India will still pay the admissible pensionary benefits including family pension to BSNL employees (excepting those recruited after 01-10-2000)”

Further if at all it is insisted,we are at a loss to understand that when all those in service and retired after 10-06-2013 are availing this benefit how could it be denied to the BSNL pensioners retired before 10-06-2013. It is simple logic that the 60-40 problem  would be more grave during the later period.

Therefore there is no justification in denying the benefit to the BSNL pensioners for one reason or another and it amounts to gross discrimination also.