The association will hold a democratic protest on March 30 to discuss their approach to Lok Sabha elections.
The Karnataka State Retired Government Employees and Senior Citizens Welfare Development Association has put forward a National Asset Proposal suggesting that senior citizens be given the status of ‘national assets’.
In a press conference held today in Bengaluru, B.A. Patil, State President, said, “Senior citizens who are above 60 years should be honored with a special status of national asset, irrespective of their caste, creed, religion, gender and socio-economic status.”
He added, “On March 30, we will hold a democratic protest to discuss whether we should vote for any political party or choose None of the Above (NOTA).” The Bengaluru branch office of the association will also be inaugurated on the same day.
According to the proposal, senior citizens who are financially weak should be given a monthly pension of Rs. 10,000. It also mentions that senior citizens should be entitled to a ‘distinguished-category’ status to avail all social services like health and transport.
The proposal also suggested the establishment of an independent ministry in the central government for the effective implementation of the proposals. It also urged to draft a special code of conduct to ensure dignity and respect for every senior citizen.
Patil said that cases of atrocities, murder, extortion and property fraud cases against senior citizens are increasing every day. He added that senior citizens are neglected everywhere in the country and several government schemes and facilities for them has been discontinued.
R.K. Mathad, Convener, Karnataka State Artha Kranti Jeevan Gaurav Abhiyan for Senior Citizens, said that many retired government employees do not get pensions on time. He said, “Several retired employees from the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and anganawadis, do not get their pension on time.”
Jeevan Gaurav Abhiyan is a concept which calls to respect senior citizens with the due respect they reserve, irrespective of their social or economic background, he explained.
Swami Kamala Manohar Paramkusham, advisor to several senior citizens associations, said, “There are several central and state schemes for senior citizens, however, they are not really focused. More than 70 percent of the senior citizens need financial support for their health, security and dignity.” He said that the initiative should be taken both at the top and bottom levels.
He added that the need of the hour is to educate the general public about the need of a dignified life for senior citizens.
