Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, May 9: Members of the J&K Disabled Welfare Association today staged a protest in Baramulla, demanding that the Government fulfil promises related to pensions, pending honorariums and special recruitment drives.
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The protesters assembled near Karipa Park and alleged that despite repeated assurances from the administration and political parties, several long-pending issues concerning specially-abled persons remain unresolved.
The demonstrators urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration and the elected Government to address their concerns at the earliest to ensure a dignified life for specially-abled persons and their families.
One of the protesters, Manzoor Ahmad Sheikh, said there was a delay in the disbursement of honorariums in Baramulla district, with several beneficiaries yet to receive payments.
“In Baramulla district, there is pendency in the honorarium we used to receive, since 2022. Some people have got it, while others are still waiting,” Sheikh said.
He said the monthly financial assistance provided by the Government was insufficient to meet basic living expenses.
“We are getting Rs 1,250 as assistance from the Government, while our electricity bills alone cross Rs 2,000. How are we supposed to sustain ourselves? Those who have families are facing immense difficulties,” he said.
Sheikh demanded an increase in pension, free electricity for specially-abled persons and enhanced Government support.
“During elections, we were told that our issues would be addressed. We voted, but now nothing has been done for us,” he alleged.
Another protester urged the Government to implement promises made in election manifestos, particularly regarding a special recruitment drive for specially-abled persons.
“What was promised to us in the manifesto should be fulfilled. We have issues related to the special recruitment drive and pensions. The Government had promised these measures and must now implement them,” the protester said.
He also warned that the community would be forced to intensify protests if their demands continued to be ignored.
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