Decision to Reduce Pension Sparks Outrage Among Retired Doctors
Chennai: The Doctors Association for Social Equality has strongly opposed the Tamil Nadu government’s recent decision to cut down the enhanced pension and family pension of retired medical officers, calling it an unjust and anti-labour move.
The government’s order cited “changed circumstances” and the need to reallocate funds for welfare schemes, leading to the cancellation of the Enhanced Pension or Family Pension drawn by medical officers and their families. However, it clarified that no recoveries would be made for the pension already received.
Doctors Association Condemns the Move
Dr. GR Ravindranath, General Secretary of the association, criticized the decision, arguing that it would affect the livelihood of over 850 retired doctors. He stated that the government should find alternative funding sources rather than reducing pensions for doctors who have dedicated their lives to public healthcare.
“This move is unfair and unjust. Cutting pensions to fund welfare schemes is an infringement on the rights of retired doctors. The government must reconsider and withdraw this decision immediately,” Dr. Ravindranath urged, calling on the DMK government to rectify the issue.
The association has vowed to continue its fight against the pension revision order, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of retired medical professionals.