A Call to Collective Action : Mobilizing Pensioners for Justice and Dignity
By Lokanath Mishra, Chief Adviser,Central Government Pensioners Association, Puri
The strength of any association lies not merely in its structure, but in the unity, resolve, and collective will of its members. At a time when the concerns of pensioners demand urgent attention and decisive action, the Central Government Pensioners Association, Puri, stands at a critical juncture. This is not a routine phase of organizational activity—it is a defining moment that calls for commitment, discipline, and solidarity.
The Association has been consistently pursuing several key priorities that are central to the welfare and dignity of the entire pensioners’ fraternity. Foremost among these is securing rightful benefits through the 8th Pay Commission, including a substantial enhancement of pension and a comprehensive strengthening of CGHS-related entitlements. Pensioners, who have dedicated their lives in service to the nation, deserve equitable and dignified post-retirement support, and this remains a non-negotiable demand.
Equally significant is the long-pending demand for the establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre in Puri. The absence of such a facility has caused considerable hardship to pensioners in the region, making this demand both urgent and justified. Further, the Association is advocating for the extension of CGHS facilities, on par with Central Government employees and pensioners, to those associated with Autonomous Educational Institutions, including the Central Sanskrit University, Shadashiv Campus, Puri. Equity in healthcare access must not be limited by institutional classifications.
In pursuit of these objectives, a comprehensive and well-structured memorandum has already been submitted to the 8th Central Pay Commission. The document has received widespread appreciation and is being regarded across various platforms as one of the most effective submissions to date. The Association’s leadership is now preparing to present oral evidence before the Commission with clarity, conviction, and authority.
Simultaneously, a detailed representation addressing the establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre and the extension of CGHS benefits has been submitted to the Hon’ble President of India, with copies forwarded to all concerned authorities. However, representation alone cannot yield results without visible and collective action.
In this context, the Association has proposed the organization of a Mass One-Day Fasting Programme on 6th June 2026, to be held in front of the Shadashiv Campus, Puri. This peaceful and disciplined demonstration is intended to assert the legitimate demands of pensioners and to draw the attention of authorities and the public alike.
The success of this initiative depends entirely on the active participation and dedication of members. All members are expected to assemble at the Shadashiv Campus from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the designated day, observing a strict fast (water only during the period). Participation must be universal, reflecting unity and determination. Arrangements may be made for a get-together after the fasting hours to reinforce solidarity.
Mobilization efforts must extend beyond the Association. Members are encouraged to personally reach out to Central Government employees in Puri, including those at the Shadashiv Campus, ensuring that the purpose and importance of the movement are clearly communicated. Formal written appeals, along with copies of the representation submitted to the President of India, should be widely circulated.
Official intimation must also be provided to key administrative authorities, including the Director of Shadashiv Campus, the District Collector, the Superintendent of Police, heads of Central Government departments, and representatives of employees’ associations. Engagement with media—both through personal contact and written communication—is essential to ensure that the movement receives appropriate public visibility.
The Association must also seek the support of other organizations, including state government pensioners’ associations, banking and railway bodies, and voluntary organizations such as Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, and journalists’ associations. Collective advocacy strengthens legitimacy and amplifies impact.
Wherever necessary, physical meetings should be organized across departments to mobilize support and ensure maximum participation. Such grassroots engagement will be instrumental in transforming intent into action.
At present, the leadership is engaged in high-level discussions regarding the memorandum and preparation for oral evidence before the Pay Commission. In this phase, the responsibility rests firmly with every member to act with seriousness and purpose.
There must be no complacency, no hesitation, and no excuses. This is a collective struggle for justice, dignity, and rightful entitlement. The outcome will depend not only on what is demanded, but on how strongly and unitedly those demands are presented.
The call is clear: act with determination, stand with unity, and ensure that this mass fasting programme becomes a landmark expression of collective resolve.
Long Live Our Unity. Unity Zindabad.