Assam: Specially-abled individuals protest in Tezpur on World Disability Day over pension scheme concerns

A large group of specially-abled individuals gathered in Tezpur on World Disability Day to protest against the merger of two pension schemes, voicing their concerns over the hardships they have faced. Organized by the North Assam Divyang Association, the rally took place from Joymati Pathar to Triveni Point, drawing attention to the issues confronting the disabled community.

The protesters strongly criticized the decision to combine the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Divyang Pension Scheme with the Arunodoi Pension Scheme, which has reportedly left more than 6,000 specially-abled individuals in Sonitpur district without their minimum pension for the last 18 months.

General Secretary of the North Assam Divyang Association, Mridul Bhuyan, expressed that the merger has led to a significant loss of benefits for the disabled population. The association is demanding the reinstatement of the original Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Divyang Pension Scheme and an increase in the monthly pension to Rs 3,000 for specially-abled individuals.

To highlight their demands, the protesters submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister via the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Additional Deputy Commissioner Kavita Kakati Konwar visited the protest site and assured the protesters that the concerns regarding the pension scheme merger would be discussed and addressed in collaboration with the Deputy Commissioner’s office.

Also read: Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala suspends visa and consular services due to "security situation"