What’s particularly striking is the conspicuous absence of attention from mainstream media outlets.
In a startling turn of events, Ramlila Maidan in Delhi has become the epicenter of a rapidly expanding protest movement, as thousands of government employees from across the nation unite under one common demand – the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). The sheer scale of this gathering evokes memories of the historic Janlokpal Andolan, highlighting the profound discontent among these government workers, whose fervent chants and impassioned speeches echo through the air, emphasizing their unyielding determination.
What’s particularly striking is the conspicuous absence of attention from mainstream media outlets. Despite the substantial turnout and the gravity of the issue, this event has largely escaped headlines. To provide context, over 20 lakh government employees participated in the protest just yesterday, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the unity among government workers on this matter.
The media’s silence on this issue raises pertinent questions about their role and priorities in covering such critical events, especially in contrast to their extensive coverage of Ramlila Maidan in 2014 during the Anna Hazare movement, which was closely associated with the BJP-RSS.
The implications of this protest cannot be underestimated and may even cast shadows on the stability of the Modi government’s leadership as the demonstration gains momentum. The nation watches closely as Ramlila Maidan reverberates with the voices of government employees, making their demands known.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story as we delve into the reasons behind this massive protest and its potential impact on the political landscape.
In a surprising twist, while mainstream media remains relatively silent, viral video clips of the rally are circulating on social media platforms. Some YouTubers have also given this massive public gathering the attention it deserves on their YouTube channels. It’s disheartening that many in today’s mainstream media, who consider themselves journalists, have failed to cover this significant rally. Could this monumental rally be signaling a potential challenge to the Modi government’s leadership?
A Massive Gathering of Government Employees Unites at Ramlila Maidan, Demanding the Reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme
Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan has witnessed a historic gathering, with thousands of employees from the Central government, states, and PSUs converging to protest against the New Pension Scheme and call for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). This monumental ‘Pension Shankhanaad Rally’ has drawn government and PSU employees from over 20 states, organized by the National Movement for Old Pension Scheme (NMOPS).
The Congress party has voiced its support for the protests against the New Pension Scheme, emphasizing that Congress-ruled states have already reinstated the old pension. Congress states firmly believe that old pension is the rightful entitlement of employees and that the Modi government should honor the workers who serve the nation by restoring the old pension.
Videos from Ramlila Maidan depict a sea of government employees chanting slogans against the Central government, demanding the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme.
In a show of solidarity, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has expressed his support for the old pension scheme and has urged the Centre to implement it for Delhi government employees. He emphasized that NPS is an injustice against employees and highlighted that Delhi, under his leadership, has already implemented OPS.
Meanwhile, an article by RBI staffers raises concerns about states reverting to the old pension scheme, describing it as a “major step backward” that could lead to fiscal stress reaching “unsustainable levels” in the medium to long term. The article points out that the cumulative fiscal burden of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) could be as high as 4.5 times that of the New Pension Scheme.
The organizers of the protest claim that government employees from 20 states have joined the rally, and they insist that the party promising to restore the Old Pension Scheme should receive support in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Holding placards and flags, protesters chant slogans demanding change and unity.
National Movement For Old Pension Scheme leader Vijay Kumar Bandhu stated, “Our team believed that if the central government ratifies this (OPS), then the onus won’t be on the state government. This is why we had come to Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan to protest.”
In recent developments, states like Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh have already announced their decision to revert to OPS from NPS.
The situation continues to evolve rapidly, and we will keep you updated with the latest developments. Stay informed with “Akai News India” on WhatsApp Channels. Subscribe today to stay up-to-date with the latest news.
