To
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
Hon’ble Minister of Education
Government of India
Shastri Bhawan
New Delhi – 110001
Email: minister.sm@gov.in
Respected Sir,
I write this representation with a deep sense of urgency and concern on behalf of the Central Government Pensioners Association, Puri, seeking your immediate intervention in addressing the long-standing and genuine grievances of pensioners of Central Government Autonomous Educational Institutions, particularly those of Central Sanskrit University, Shri Sadashiva Campus, Puri.
Denial of Equitable Healthcare – A Serious Concern:
It is most respectfully submitted that pensioners of Autonomous Educational Institutions, despite serving under institutions fully funded and governed by the Government of India, are being deprived of comprehensive healthcare facilities under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), especially cashless treatment in empanelled hospitals.
This disparity has resulted in severe financial hardship, delayed treatments, and avoidable suffering among elderly pensioners, many of whom are battling chronic and life-threatening diseases.
Violation of Constitutional Principles:
The present situation raises serious concerns under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the Right to Life, encompassing the Right to Health and Medical Care. Denial of accessible and affordable healthcare to a vulnerable section of retired government servants is inconsistent with the principles of social justice and welfare governance.
Ground Reality in Puri:
- More than 1,000–1,500 Central Government pensioners and their families are residing in Puri and surrounding areas.
- The nearest CGHS Wellness Centre is located at Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 km away, causing serious inconvenience to aged and ailing pensioners.
- In emergency situations, this distance poses a significant risk to life and timely treatment.
- Puri is a world-renowned pilgrimage destination, witnessing large inflow of CGHS beneficiaries throughout the year.
Justification as per CGHS Norms:
As per the guidelines of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, the establishment of CGHS Wellness Centres is based on:
- Concentration of beneficiaries – Substantially fulfilled in Puri
- Distance from existing CGHS centres – Clearly justified
- Public importance and footfall – Strongly applicable in case of Puri
- Availability of infrastructure – Central Sanskrit University campus offers an ideal location
- Administrative and economic feasibility – Practical and cost-effective
Thus, Puri satisfies all essential criteria for the establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre.
Our Earnest Requests:
In view of the above, we humbly yet firmly request:
- Immediate extension of CGHS facilities, including cashless treatment in empanelled hospitals, to pensioners of Central Government Autonomous Educational Institutions.
- Sanction and establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre at Puri, preferably within the campus of Central Sanskrit University, Shri Sadashiva Campus.
A Matter of Dignity and Justice:
Sir, these pensioners have devoted their lives in service of national education and culture. Ensuring access to dignified and affordable healthcare is not merely a policy matter—it is a moral and constitutional obligation.
We earnestly hope that your esteemed office will take sympathetic and expeditious action in this matter and provide long-awaited relief to thousands of pensioners and their families.
With highest regards,
Yours faithfully,
Lokanath Mishra
Advisor
Central Government Pensioners Association
Puri, Odisha
Copy to:
- Hon’ble Minister of State for Education
Email: mosedu-ad@gov.in - Hon’ble Minister of State for Education
Email: mosedu-ss@gov.in - Hon’ble Cabinet Minister
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Government of India - Hon’ble Minister of State
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare - Secretary
Ministry of Education
Government of India - Secretary
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Government of India