West Bengal Government Announces Pension and Benefits for Emergency Era Detainees

Support for Emergency Era Detainees

Kolkata, August 9 - The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Shubhendu Adhikari, announced on Sunday a monthly pension of ₹10,000, free travel on government buses, and medical assistance for 325 individuals who were imprisoned during the Emergency period. Speaking at an event held at the state secretariat, Adhikari emphasized that these individuals endured significant hardships to protect democracy during that time.

He stated, “These brave warriors faced numerous challenges.” The new state government is founded on the ideals of these heroes. The Chief Minister revealed that the state has recognized these 325 individuals, who were jailed for participating in protests during the Emergency, with the title ‘West Bengal Democracy Fighter Honor.’ Each of these individuals will receive a monthly pension of ₹10,000 and will be entitled to free travel on government buses. Additionally, they will receive ₹1,000 per month for medical assistance in government hospitals.

Adhikari mentioned that if any beneficiary has passed away, the benefits will be transferred to their spouse. He reiterated that the new government is built on the values and principles of those who sacrificed for the nation. The current central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), observes June 25 each year as ‘Constitution Murder Day’ to commemorate the Emergency imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.

Several BJP-ruled states have also honored individuals imprisoned for opposing the Emergency by providing them with awards and pensions. This year, the BJP has come to power in West Bengal for the first time following the assembly elections.