Coronavirus: Not considering pension cut, says Centre

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, April 19

The central government said on Sunday there was not considering any proposal for pension cuts, a development that comes amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In an official release, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension said it had come to its notice that in the wake of the current coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing economic scenario, “many rumours are afloat that the Government is contemplating a reduction/stoppage of Pension which has become a source of worry for the Pensioner”.

It said: “As clarified earlier, it is being reiterated that there is no such proposal for reduction of pension and no action is contemplated by the Government in this respect. Instead, the Government is committed for the welfare and well being of the pensioners”.

Earlier taking note of reports suggesting 20 per cent cut in pensions to conserve cash during the Covid-19 lockdown, even Union Ministry of Finance in a Twitter post clarified saying: “This news is false. There will be no cut in pension disbursements. It is clarified that salaries and pensions will not be affected by government cash management instructions.”

The tweet came in response to a question by a social media user, who said he has come across a central government circular showing 20 per cent cut in pension disbursement on social media and TV channels.