MUMBAI – Railway employees belonging to the Central Railway Mazdoor Sangh (CRMS) staged a hunger strike today at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to protest against the New Pension Scheme (NPS) and demand the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). The protest, organized by the Joint Forum For Restoration Of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS), saw over 200 union members participating in the strike from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.
The NPS requires employees to invest 10% of their basic salary and dearness allowance (DA), while the central government contributes an additional 14%, all of which is funneled into the stock market through pension fund managers. The pension received under the NPS is subject to the ups and downs of the market, with no government guarantee. In contrast, the OPS provided a 50% guarantee of the last basic pay drawn.
Vivek Shishodia, Divisional Chairman of CRMS, expressed concerns over the NPS, emphasizing the uncertainty it poses for the future welfare of employees. He questioned whether the government is indirectly pushing retirees to beg on the streets if they are denied their rightful pensions. Shishodia described the government’s decision as inhumane, highlighting the dedication of railway employees to their organizations.
A K Dubey, Divisional Secretary of CRMS, echoed Shishodia’s concerns and stressed the need for the government to reconsider its stance on the new pension policy. Dubey emphasized the significant role that pensions play as the sole source of revenue for many employees in their old age. He expressed hope that the hunger strike and associated protests would draw attention to the importance of the OPS and prompt the government to address the demands of the railway employees.
The hunger strike in Mumbai is part of a nationwide movement by railway employees who are demanding the restoration of the OPS. The Joint Forum For Restoration Of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS) is actively mobilizing employees from various regions to join the cause. The movement aims to safeguard the interests of lakhs of employees who fear the uncertainty of the NPS.
As the hunger strike continues to gain momentum, employees and their representatives are calling on the government to reconsider their decision and restore the OPS. The railway employees are seeking security and stability for their future, highlighting the pivotal role that pensions play in ensuring a decent quality of life after retirement.
The protest serves as a reminder of the vital contributions made by railway employees and their dedication to the nation’s transportation system. The demands put forth by the employees strike at the heart of their concerns for financial security and the well-being of their families.
It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing calls for the restoration of the OPS. As the hunger strike continues and the voices of the railway employees grow stronger, the hope for a resolution that addresses their concerns is at the forefront of their struggle.
