Himachal Congress Calls Out BJP for Confusing State Employees on Pension Issue

In the latest political development in Himachal’s political scene, the state’s Revenue Minister accused the local BJP of misleading state workers about pension plans.

Addressing a press conference at Shimla on Sunday Himachal Pradesh’s Revenue Minister, Jagat Singh Negi, criticized the state’s BJP leaders for spreading false information among state workers about pension schemes.

 Negi’s remarks, made during a media briefing in Shimla, shed light on the ongoing debate over whether to stick with the old pension scheme or adopt the new one and how it’s being used for political gain.

Negi slammed the BJP for trying to criticize the Congress government’s decision to bring back the old pension scheme, a promise they fulfilled right after winning the 2022 assembly elections. 

However, he pointed out that despite their efforts, around Rs 9000 crore of pension funds were still stuck with the central government, leaving state employees empty-handed.

The Minister accused the central government of unfairly withholding these funds, despite them rightfully belonging to state employees. He emphasized that if Congress came to power nationally, they would change the pension rules to ensure all states get their fair share.

Negi also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s acknowledgment in Parliament of the need for a uniform pension scheme for all government employees. He urged the Himachal Pradesh BJP leaders to stick to the party’s national stance on the issue.

Negi expressed hope that state employees would benefit under Congress rule, citing the restoration of the old pension scheme, clearance of pending dues, and salary increases. He criticized the BJP for creating disparities among different employee groups with their various pension systems.

The Revenue Minister stressed the significant influence of Himachal Pradesh’s large employee and pensioner population in shaping the state’s politics. 

With over five lakh employees and pensioners, Negi believes that implementing the old pension scheme in 2023 would win support for Congress in both Lok Sabha and bye-elections, solidifying their position among voters who support employee-friendly policies.

As the debate over pension schemes heats up in Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi’s accusations against the state BJP highlight the importance of clear communication and fair treatment of state workers. 

This controversy revolves around the choice between the old and new pension systems and has become a hot topic during the recent Lok Sabha elections.

With the support of a large employee and pensioner base, the outcome of this issue could have significant implications for the state’s political landscape.