The Diplomat Desk
JAMMU,TDD,The Ex-Central Paramilitary Forces Welfare Association (J&K UT) convened a press conference under the leadership of General Secretary D.K. Chauhan to address critical issues faced by paramilitary personnel and ex-servicemen.
The press conference was attended by prominent members of the association, including Ashok Kumar Verma (Chairman), Kuldeep Singh (President), Harbans Lal (Vice President), Noor Mohammad (President, District Samba),
Yash Pal, Gurdeep Singh, Bachan Lal Bhagat, Kamlesh Kumari, Warem and others.
During the press conference, the association highlighted the systemic discrimination faced by central paramilitary forces since 2014. Despite their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation under challenging conditions, their demands remain unaddressed, Chauhan said.
Unlike the Indian Army, paramilitary forces have not been granted One Rank One Pension (OROP), leading to significant disparities in post-retirement benefits, he said and criticized the government for failing to ensure regular pension revisions for retired personnel.
He said that paramilitary forces do not receive medical benefits on par with their Army counterparts, despite facing similar risks and hardships.
“Personnel martyred in the line of duty are not accorded martyr status, which denies them and their families the respect and benefits they deserve,” Chauhan said and lamented the lack of priority given to paramilitary forces who serve tirelessly on international borders, maintain law and order, and operate in terrorism affected regions like Jammu & Kashmir, Chhattisgarh, and the Northeast.
He accused the central government of treating paramilitary forces with “step-motherly” indifference. While these forces work 24/7 throughout the year, their contributions are undervalued, and their service conditions remain stagnant, he said.
The association also expressed disappointment with the Director Generals (DGs) of paramilitary forces, accusing them of failing to advocate for the welfare of their personnel. Additionally, the association criticized the lack of action from local political leaders. They appealed to J&K MPs Jugal Kishore Sharma and Dr. Jitendra Singh (MoS PMO) to raise their concerns in Parliament. However, the response from these MPs remains pending.
The association also urged local MLAs to bring the issues of paramilitary personnel to the government’s attention, emphasizing the need for political intervention at both state and central levels.
In a gesture of unity, the association extended its respect and support to farmers who have been fighting for their rights. They criticized the government for ignoring the legitimate demands of farmers, drawing parallels with their own struggle for recognition and justice.
The Ex-Central Paramilitary Forces Welfare Association vowed to continue its fight for justice, demanding equal treatment for paramilitary forces.
The association called on the government to recognize the sacrifices of paramilitary personnel and address their long-standing issues.TDD
