Coordination Committee of Pensioners' Association, Bhubaneswar, Odisha organized protest demonstration forming Human Chain in the premises of Bhubaneswar GPO on 25th July 2025

Respected Pensioners,

Red Salute to your Unyielding Spirit.

In a rare show of determination and courage, hundreds of pensioners, many of them in their eighties and nineties, braved the continuous downpour today in the capital city of Bhubaneswar and assembled in front of Bhubaneswar GPO, forming a resolute Human Chain of protest. Age, weather, or frailty could not deter their fiery spirit — for what brought them together was not mere grievance, but a demand for justice and dignity.

Pensioners from various sectors — Postal, Telecom, BSNL, Income Tax, AG, Institute of Physics and others — many of whom had travelled long distances from the outskirts of the city, stood shoulder to shoulder in the rain. Their message was loud and clear: “Stop discriminating among pensioners in the name of the Finance Act 2025. Constitute the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) without any further delay.”

It has been more than six months since the declaration made in January 2025 regarding the 8th CPC. Yet, there has been no formal constitution, no Gazette notification, and no meaningful dialogue from the side of the Central Government. Instead, the Finance Act 2025 continues to create an unjust divide among pensioners, leading to growing unrest and resentment.

This massive turnout in inclement weather is not just a protest — it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our senior and super-senior citizens who gave their youth and sweat to nation-building. Their gathering is not only an agitation but a moral reminder to the authorities that no law or fiscal policy should override the right to equity, justice, and dignity of life in old age.

We bow our heads in deep respect and raise our fists in solidarity — Red Salute to these warriors of justice! Their presence in today's Human Chain despite fragile health and harsh weather conditions speaks volumes about their unwavering faith in democracy and their lifelong service to the nation.

We sincerely appeal to the Government of India — do not test the patience of those who have already given their best years to this country. Withdraw the discriminatory provisions under the Finance Act 2025 and immediately constitute the 8th CPC. Justice delayed is justice denied — and it is high time the voice of the pensioners is not only heard but honored.

Let this protest be a call to conscience, and let justice prevail.

= B SAMAL =

Convenor

Coordination Committee of Pensioners' Association, Bhubaneswar