88-year-old M.J . Antony from Pattom is pushing Kerala's Chief Minister for extra pension for state retirees over 80. He's asking for what retired Central government workers already get.
Antony's fight comes as Kerala sets up a new department for its ageing population's issues. But he says many don't know about the extra pension for seniors. He used to work with another pensioner,K.M. Joseph,who has passed away. Antony is still pushing,highlighting financial strain on pensioners like him.
In his petition,Antony cites a key Supreme Court case,D.S. Nakara vs. Union of India,affirming pensions as a right,not charity. ruling says pensions ensure dignified life for elderly.
Antony notes that various Central Pay Commissions have recognized older pensioners' needs. The Vth Commission called pensions a right,while the VIth suggested a tiered system starting at 20% extra for those 80 and rising to 100% for centenarians. Kerala hasn't adopted this,leaving many elderly without enough support.
The 2009 Kerala Pay Revision Commission proposed just 5% increase for those 80, up to 50% at 100. Yet,the state didn't implement even this despite promises to match Central standards. Antony remembers the UDF's 2011 election promise for parity, which they didn't keep in power. The LDF, governing for a decade,did the same .
Antony worries the state is finding excuses to deny extra pension. He points to the 2019 Kerala Pay Commission's suggestion for a ₹1,000 monthly 'special care allowance' for pensioners over 80. But the government argues adopting the Central model is too costly.
With UDF back in power,Antony insists they must fulfill 2011 promise and follow Constitutional obligations from the Nakara case. He stresses urgency, as many pensioners over 80 are bedridden,facing high medical costs and needing full-time care. Extra financial help is crucial as these seniors face ageing challenges often ignored by society.
