BSNL Pensioners: Recent Developments and Ongoing Challenges

Introduction

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) pensioners have been at the forefront of significant discussions and developments concerning their post-retirement benefits. Recent events have highlighted both progress and ongoing challenges in areas such as pension revisions, medical facilities, and organizational support.

Pension Revision Updates

The issue of pension revision remains a critical concern for BSNL retirees. On July 12, 2024, a pivotal hearing took place at the Delhi High Court regarding the revision of pensions. During this session, the court did not issue any new notices. The advocate representing the All India BSNL Pensioners' Welfare Association (AIBSNLPWA) requested an adjournment due to the unavailability of their senior advocate, Mr. Ghosh, who was on tour that day. Consequently, the court rescheduled the hearing for August 1, 2024. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) counsel highlighted that a contempt of court case was slated for hearing in the Principal Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (PB CAT) in New Delhi on August 13, 2024, and urged the court to issue a notice. The High Court, in response, questioned the DoT on their non-compliance with the PB CAT judgment. Despite these deliberations, no notice was issued, and the case was deferred to the later date.

Further developments on August 12, 2024, saw BSNL and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) pensioners presenting arguments in the Delhi High Court. They contended that post-absorption into these organizations, they were no longer treated as government employees, leading to discrepancies in their pension calculations. Specifically, their pensions were based on Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA) pay scales rather than the Central Dearness Allowance (CDA) scales applicable to government employees.

Medical Facilities and Welfare Measures

Access to timely medical facilities has been a pressing issue for BSNL pensioners. In a recent development, the BSNL Pensioners Welfare Association held its sixth biennial convention in Chhapra. During this meeting, members expressed dissatisfaction with delays in medical services and the pending pension revision case in the High Court. The association emphasized the need for prompt medical facilities and urged the authorities to address these concerns without further delay.

In response to these challenges, the BSNL retired employees' portal has introduced several initiatives to assist pensioners. The portal now offers services such as online application submissions, digital ID cards, and platforms for suggestions, complaints, and grievances. Additionally, there's a built-in video call feature for the renewal of the BSNL Medical Reimbursement Scheme (BSNLMRS), aiming to streamline processes and enhance accessibility for retirees.

Organizational Support and Advocacy

The All India BSNL Retired Executives' Association (AIBSNLREA) has been actively involved in advocating for the rights and benefits of BSNL pensioners. In a recent meeting, the association's Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Sitansu Sarkar, provided detailed updates on various issues, including the status of court cases related to pension revision, pending medical reimbursement bills, and other pertinent matters. The association continues to play a crucial role in representing the interests of retirees and ensuring that their concerns are addressed at the highest levels.

Conclusion

While there have been notable strides in addressing the concerns of BSNL pensioners, several challenges persist. The ongoing legal proceedings concerning pension revisions and the demand for timely medical facilities underscore the need for continued advocacy and dialogue between pensioners, associations, and relevant authorities. It is imperative for all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure that the rights and well-being of BSNL retirees are upheld.