Odisha Opposition Leader Raises Alarm Over Pension Delays Affecting Millions

On Friday, Naveen Patnaik, the leader of the opposition and head of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha, addressed a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi, highlighting the issue of 1.8 million beneficiaries who have not received their pensions for the past three months. In his correspondence, Patnaik expressed that this situation has placed the most vulnerable citizens of Odisha in a dire predicament, exposing them to severe hardship, deprivation, and the risk of starvation. He also pointed out the tragic case of a female pensioner from Ganjam who reportedly died due to not receiving her pension benefits.

The former Chief Minister stated, "I am writing this letter with deep concern and sorrow regarding the lack of pension payments to nearly 1.8 million beneficiaries across Odisha for the last three months." He emphasized that these pensioners include the most vulnerable segments of society, such as the elderly, widows, and disabled individuals, many of whom rely entirely on these pensions for their daily sustenance. The prolonged absence of this essential support has led to significant distress, deprivation, and even the threat of hunger among these citizens. Reports indicate that Mrs. Sabitri Dora from Beguniyapada in Ganjam passed away due to the non-receipt of her pension.

Referring to the "transparent" process established during his tenure, where pensions were transferred to all beneficiaries by the 15th of each month, the BJD leader noted that the current issue stems from a software-related problem. It is alarming that such a lengthy delay is attributed to a technical glitch. This reflects gross negligence and a failure to uphold the government's fundamental responsibilities. Citizens' rights cannot be left to the mercy of technological failures. It is crucial to remember that for the past 24 years, my administration ensured that pensions were distributed regularly on the 15th of each month, celebrated as 'Citizen Service Day.' Beneficiaries received their pensions in a transparent and humane manner at the village panchayat level. In cases where pensioners could not attend in person, officials ensured that the pension amounts were delivered directly to their homes.

The opposition leader stressed that the Supreme Court had praised their government's "citizen-centric" model. He asserted that the current crisis is not merely a procedural lapse but a serious governance failure. He urged Chief Minister Majhi to establish accountability for this issue and to resolve it as swiftly as possible.