Nagaland National Pension System employees have threatened agitation, demanding restoration of the Old Pension Scheme amid growing dissatisfaction.
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DIMAPUR — Stepping up pressure on the state government, Nagaland National Pension System Government Service Employees Forum (NNPSGSEF) has warned of intensified democratic protests if its long-pending demand for restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) continues to be ignored.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the forum expressed “deep anguish and discontent” over what it termed as prolonged government inaction on restoring OPS under the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules.
It underscored that pension is a “vested right, not a charity or bounty,” echoing observations made by the Supreme Court.
The forum argued that the existing National Pension System (NPS), being market-linked, offers no guaranteed returns, thereby leaving employees uncertain about their financial security after retirement.
In contrast, it stated, the OPS ensures assured pension, dignity, and stability in old age—benefits currently enjoyed by employees appointed before January 1, 2010.
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Highlighting disparities, the NNPSGSEF pointed out that employees under OPS and NPS perform identical duties within the state machinery, yet face starkly different post-retirement benefits.
It termed this a violation of the principle of “equal pay for equal work” and called for uniformity in pensionary provisions.
Since its formation in 2022, the forum stated that it has repeatedly submitted representations to the chief secretary and organised peaceful protests, dharnas, rallies, and campaigns to press its demands.
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However, it lamented that there has been no official response from the government so far, leading to growing frustration among employees.
The forum also raised concerns over the continued silence, suggesting possibilities such as administrative delays, lack of policy-level discussions, or deprioritisation of pension reforms, though it clarified these were assumptions arising from the absence of communication.
Urging immediate attention, the NNPSGSEF appealed to the government to take up the issue during the upcoming 8th Session (Phase II) of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly beginning March 26, and to clarify its stance on the matter.
Reiterating its demand, the forum called for a clear and time-bound response, warning that failure to address the issue could compel NPS-covered employees to resort to further democratic agitation to secure their “genuine and legitimate rights.”