Spokesperson: Sukhpal Singh Khaira: He launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Central Government for what he termed as the “systematic neglect and financial injustice” being meted out to India’s armed forces personnel and veterans.

He strongly condemned the reported denial and dilution of income tax concessions on disability pensions and other service-related benefits of soldiers, calling it a “heartless and shameful decision that strikes at the dignity of those who sacrificed their health and limbs for the nation.”

“From pension issues to disability benefits and service conditions, the trend shows cost cutting at the expense of soldiers. National security cannot be managed on contract, and soldiers’ welfare cannot be treated as a budget burden,” he said.

Demand for Immediate Action: 1. Ensure full income tax exemption and protection of disability pensions of armed forces personnel. 2. Resolve all OROP anomalies in consultation with veterans’ associations. 3. Review the Agniveer scheme and safeguard long-term service security and benefits. 4. Stop any dilution of pensions, allowances and welfare benefits of serving and retired defence personnel. He said, “Our soldiers give their youth, health and sometimes their lives for the nation. The least the government can do is ensure dignity, financial security and justice.” Thursday, February 5, 2026