September 4, 2016

Rajeev Chandrasekhar

I am concerned over painful battles soldiers have to fight for disability pensions / benefits. It is an issue I have raised time and again with successive Governments and Ministers of Defence.

It is a matter of great concern that there are currently over 16000 cases related to the uniformed services pending before the various courts and tribunals in the country. Of these, almost 90 per cent of the total appeals filed by the Ministry of Defence comprises challenge to the disability benefits to the soldiers.

The Prime Minister and the Raksha Mantri have on various occasions voiced their concern about the welfare of men and women in uniform. Both have also called for reduction in litigation by the Government against defence personnel, but the issues continue.

I have suggested audits to check cases rather than automatic appealing against all. It is unfortunate that our brave men and women in uniform who serve and their families have to fight for their legitimate dues.